REGINA — Saskatchewan is doubling down on its workforce, announcing a $3.5 million investment in trades and skills training aimed at preparing thousands of residents for jobs in a rapidly expanding economy.
The funding, announced by the Government of Saskatchewan, includes a $534,000 increase to the Regina and Saskatoon Trades and Skills Centres, allowing each to add three new training programs tailored to industry demand.
Saskatchewan's Minister of Social Services Terry Jenson, speaking at the Regina Trades and Skills Centre, said the timing could not be more critical.
“When you look at more than 60 major projects worth over $62 billion either underway or coming soon, there is no better time to be in the trades in this province,” Jenson told attendees. “We need to ensure we are training as many individuals as possible to meet that demand.”
A workforce under pressure
Saskatchewan’s economy is expanding at a pace that is placing growing pressure on the labour market, according to Jenson. The province recently ranked first in Canada for private capital investment growth, reaching $13.6 billion, while projections show roughly 20,000 job openings in sectors such as construction, mining and manufacturing over the next five years, he said during the event.
Those industries rely heavily on skilled trades.
To meet that demand, the province launched its labour market strategy in 2024, focusing on connecting people to jobs, recognizing skills, and supporting recruitment. The latest investment targets the first pillar by expanding access to short-term, job-focused training.
“These training centres enable people to build the skills they need to find meaningful employment and develop a high quality of life,” Jenson stated. “When people see a brighter future, they are better able to build independence and contribute to strong communities.”
The Regina and Saskatoon Trades and Skills Centres have become key players in that effort, offering short-term, hands-on programs developed in direct partnership with employers.
The Regina centre enroled 174 students in the 2024-25 year, while Saskatoon trained 138. Programs are designed to move participants quickly into entry-level jobs, often in high-demand areas.
RTSC executive director Brian Shankowsky said the demand from employers is immediate and intense.
“In many cases, we hear from more employers in the first week of a program than we have students enroled,” Shankowsky said. “The need for entry-level workers and skilled tradespeople is huge.”
He said the additional funding will allow the centre to expand existing programs and introduce new ones based on real-time labour market needs.
“Our focus is on helping people build confidence, develop skills and secure employment,” expressed Shankowsky. “This investment allows us to do more of that work and respond directly to what employers are asking for.”
Beyond job training, the centres play a broader role in supporting economic mobility. Through partnerships with government ministries, they help individuals, including those receiving income support, gain skills that lead to stable employment and long-term independence.
For employers, the centres offer a pipeline of job-ready workers. For students, they provide a pathway into industries that are shaping Saskatchewan’s future.
Looking ahead
The new funding will be split between Regina and Saskatoon, with programs expected to roll out in the coming months. Officials say the goal is to remain flexible, adapting quickly to changing labour demands.
At the same time, leadership at the Regina centre is also transitioning. After more than a decade in the role, Shankowsky is retiring, with longtime educator Darcy Kewan stepping in as the new executive director.
RTSC vice-chair Jason Moldenhauer said the change marks a new chapter for the organization.
“Darcy brings a wealth of experience and will help lead the centre into the next generation of workforce development,” he exclaimed.
From construction sites to manufacturing floors, the demand for skilled workers is only expected to grow. The province’s strategy is to meet that demand head-on by investing in training that leads directly to jobs.
“Our government sees the value in Saskatchewan people,” Jenson said. “We are making strategic investments so residents can access training, build skills, and take advantage of the opportunities being created across this province.”
