The president of Bexson Construction is seeing the importance of provisions in the Alberta budget aimed at supporting the trades sector.
Cody Bexson is reflecting on the $102 million in funding over three years with which Alberta aims to create 3,200 apprenticeship spaces in high-demand areas. Also, the Feb. 29 budget has $25 billion in capital spending over three years for critical infrastructure projects from new roads and hospitals to schools.
Bexson in noting the shortage of skilled tradespeople, says they are seeing “an influx into the trades, but that was needed two years ago.”
“We are seeing a lot of the older generation move on into retirement, so we are definitely looking forward to some new blood.”
In his business, Bexson says the need starts from the labour level.
“We always find that transitioning from labour into a trade is the best way for someone to find the road of what they want to do. I think you have to be in the trade, in carpentry or plumbing, and learn a little bit before you jump into school. You have to like it. You have to want to do it and get up and do it every day.”
Bexson added the job of a tradesperson is hands on and “you’re going to be out in the sun, snow, rain and cold.”
He noted that the trades pay extremely well and there are lots of opportunities to branch off into your own business.
“You see lots of small plumbing, mechanical and electrical companies. If you are business-minded, that is definitely an opportunity for you as well.”