Province invests in job creation program for vets

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on June 18, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

The government says it will invest more than $1 million into a specialized program that supports veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces looking to rejoin the workforce.

The $1.2-million investment to support Prospect Human Services Forces @WORK program was announced Tuesday by Jason Nixon, minister of assisted living and social services, and will support the @WORK programs initiative, which involves addressing both personal and professional factors that veterans experience, such as physical, psychological or emotional barriers.

Veterans who participate in the program receive individualized assessment and customized support tailored to their unique experiences. Supports offered to vets include on-the-job training opportunities, resume and interview preparation, career planning and job search assistance.

The program also provides ongoing support to veterans throughout their career to help them maintain long-term, meaningful employment.

“Our government is committed to ensuring that veterans and public safety personnel have the support they need to build meaningful careers beyond their service,” said Nixon. “Through this partnership, we’re honouring Alberta’s heroes by helping them transition into rewarding careers in the civilian workforce.”

The @WORK program is also designed to provide veterans the skills they will need to adapt to highly specialized tasks in new work environments. Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Justin Wright, who also serves as the government’s Military Liaison to the Canadian Armed Forces, says he values the skill set already instilled within veterans.

“Their srength, determination and discipline developed in their line of work are valuable assets to any industry,” said Wright in a statement. “This investment helps ensure those strengths are recognized and supported as they transition into meaningful civilian careers.”

The @WORK program is also offered to first responders, including firefighters, police officers and paramedics, as well as public safety personnel such as corrections workers and emergency dispatchers.

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