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FORT MCMURRAY — Fort McMurray job seekers and employers now have access to a new provincial online platform designed to match workers with jobs based on their skills and experience rather than job titles.
The Alberta government has launched the WorkFirst Alberta Talent Exchange as part of an almost $250-million investment in employment services across the province.
The platform is open to employers and job seekers throughout Alberta and gives employers access to an initial pool of 5,000 job seekers.
Assisted Living and Social Services Minister Nathan Neudorf said the system is intended to connect qualified workers with employers more quickly.
“Before entering public service, I spent almost 30 years in construction. I know the value of steady work and the right hire,” Neudorf said.
“Talent Exchange connects job seekers and employers faster, delivering on the WorkFirst Alberta commitment.”
The province says the platform uses matching technology to compare skills and experience rather than relying primarily on job titles.
That approach is intended to identify candidates whose abilities may not be fully reflected in conventional resumes, including people who face barriers to employment.
Since opening in June, Talent Exchange has been used by employers in industries including construction, health care and social services, hospitality and recreation, wholesale trade and public administration.
The service is part of WorkFirst Alberta, which provides employment supports including career planning, assistive technology, supported job placements and resources intended to help employers reduce accessibility barriers.
The program also offers supports including child care, transportation assistance for people with mobility needs and mental health services.
“Talent Exchange makes it easier for employers to find qualified people based on their skills and experience, not just their job titles,” Thrive CEO Jeff Doucet said.
“It’s a practical way to connect Alberta job seekers with meaningful opportunities while helping employers find the talent they need.”
WorkFirst Alberta is delivered through more than 160 employment service providers across the province.
The government says almost 10,000 Albertans have accessed digital employment services through the online Thrive platform since WorkFirst Alberta launched last year.
More than 61,000 Albertans received employment services last year, while more than 7,200 employers accessed employment supports through the Ministry of Assisted Living and Social Services.
The province says 8,800 job seekers also connected with more than 500 employers through hiring events.
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