MH Economic Development working to detail current local labour market conditions

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on November 16, 2024.

The City of Medicine Hat is seeking to understand the mismatch in skills and job demand with a new collaborative project.

Medicine Hat Economic Development, in collaboration with the Medicine Hat Local Immigration Partnership and Saamis Immigration, with support from the Government of Alberta Jobs, Economy and Trade, is working to get a clearer picture of the current labour market conditions in the city and region.

The Local Labour Market Profiles Project conducted an employer survey in addition to a review of secondary source data. This, combined with labour market data and first-hand accounts from employers, will be used to predict future skill shortages for local and regional employers.

Part of this work took place at the recent Economic Growth Forum, where Medicine Hat Economic Development hosted a facilitated conversation with economic developers and employment service providers working across southeast Alberta.

“Twenty-eight per cent of employers reported vacant positions that they are actively recruiting for. The region’s health care, retail trade and construction sectors are anticipated to lead employment growth,” said Alex Wright, Medicine Hat Economic Development officer.

The Local Labour Market Profiles Project and associated reports can be read on the city website at medicinehat.ca/en/mhed-llmp.aspx.