The Edmonton Leader’s Dinner brought together industry, government, and labour partners for an evening of meaningful dialogue focused on the future of Alberta’s skilled trades workforce. TEPF President & CEO Barb Simic joined colleagues from the Building Trades of Alberta (BTA) and several TEPF Training Partners to discuss opportunities to enhance trades training and apprenticeship pathways across the province.

Throughout the evening, Barb met with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, along with Ministers Rajan Sawhney and Myles McDougall, to explore shared priorities around workforce development, skills training, and long‑term labour force sustainability. The conversations highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, labour organizations, and training providers to ensure Alberta’s trades professionals continue to thrive.

TEPF extends its appreciation to the Building Trades of Alberta—both a founding partner and long‑standing collaborator—for the invitation and for fostering an environment where constructive, forward‑looking discussions could take place.

Feature photo (l-r): Barb Simic, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, and Rob Calver, BTA Strategic Engagement & Development Director.

Photo (l-r): Kyle Downie (SkillPlan CEO), Terry Parker (BTA Executive Director), Lyle Daniels (BTA Community & Indigenous Director), Shauntelle Hollett (International Union of Painters and Allied Trades DC17 Business Manager), Ken Coghill (Local 1 Alberta Business Manager), Barb Simic, Martin Smith (Carpenters’ Regional Council – Alberta Senior Business Representative), Rodney Carlson (UA Local 488 Business Agent), Rob Calver, and Cody Telford (UA 488 Assistant Business Manager).

Photo (l-r): Lyle Daniels, Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney, Barb Simic, and Terry Parker.