Airdrie’ projected population growth in the next several years is predicted to outpace the province and other communities in the area. The city is also set to see the youngest average age of residents in comparison to the rest of Alberta. But how does this impact businesses that are looking to hire future prospects?  

“More growth means more population, which means more workforce. We typically have a large amount of workforce that is under the age of 50, which fits into that available workforce for businesses that operate out of Airdrie,” said Adena Malyk, one of four economic advisors working for the city. 

Recently, the Airdrie Economic Development team published an infographic meant to inform and entice future businesses and future employers to have a closer look at Airdrie. According to Airdrie’s Workforce Advantage, the city’s workforce is concentrated in construction, health care and social assistance, transportation and warehousing, as well as scientific and technical services. 

“We're seeing a lot of inquiries and growth around manufacturing, food processing, as well as agro-business and innovation type businesses. I think we have some of the workforce available here,” Malyk said. “As we are projected to grow, I think that will also be a draw for the workforce to consider Airdrie as a place to move their family.” 

Airdrie's economic development team is getting the word out that Airdrie is an untapped resource when it comes to the workforce (Infographic provided by Airdrie Economic Development)Airdrie's economic development team is getting the word out that Airdrie is an untapped resource when it comes to the workforce (Infographic provided by Airdrie Economic Development)

Airdrie also has a higher percentage of residents that have post-secondary education in comparison to the rest of Alberta and a high participation and engagement rate within their work.  

“[We’re doing] our best to tell Airdrie’s story outside of Airdrie so that we try to attract the type of people that are going to move to Airdrie that could fill those positions.” 

Malyk was asked about the fact that the majority of Airdronians are commuting to Calgary for work and how a growing Airdrie resident base may be the key to keeping Airdronians working in Airdrie instead of travelling southbound on the QEII. 

“Obviously there's always room for more jobs and Airdrie and as we continue to grow on the commercial and industrial side, we will see jobs increase over time,” she said. “It’s really all about working with our business community to understand what their needs are in terms of workforce or talent, and then working in conjunction with them to try to attract new talent territory."

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