SMART Canada Celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day and Partnerships Supporting Indigenous Workforce Development

Edmonton, AB – On National Indigenous Peoples Day, SMART Canada recognizes the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples while reaffirming its commitment to creating meaningful pathways into the unionized skilled trades.

Through partnerships with Indigenous communities, training organizations, service providers, and local unions, SMART Canada is expanding access to pre-apprenticeship programs, apprenticeships, and long-term careers in the sheet metal and roofing industries. These partnerships help remove barriers to entry, provide mentorship, and connect Indigenous workers with rewarding careers.

“National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to celebrate the history, cultures, and achievements of Indigenous Peoples while recognizing the importance of building strong partnerships that create opportunities for future generations,” said Jack Wall, Director of Canadian Affairs for SMART Canada. “SMART Canada is committed to working alongside Indigenous communities and organizations to ensure more Indigenous workers can access high-quality training, lifelong careers, and the many benefits of SMART union membership.”

One example of a successful partnership is the collaboration between SMART Local 8 (Alberta) and Trade Winds to Success. Together, they are helping Indigenous community members explore careers in the sheet metal trade by connecting them with pre-apprenticeship training, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities. This is a new partnership designed to support participants at every step of their journey, from initial recruitment and engagement through to apprenticeship entry and beyond. Through support and industry connections, this partnership helps participants develop the skills, confidence, and experience needed to enter apprenticeship programs and build rewarding careers with SMART Canada.

“Trade Winds has seen many Indigenous people build better lives for themselves and their families through careers in the skilled trades. These successes are made possible through strong partnerships that bring together shared strengths and a common commitment to reducing educational and employment gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with SMART Local 8 to offer the Sheet Metal Worker pathway,” said Carol Lee, Manager – Program Delivery, Trade Winds to Success.

SMART Canada recognizes that building an inclusive workforce requires ongoing commitment and collaboration. By working with Indigenous communities and organizations across the country, SMART is helping ensure that the next generation of skilled tradespeople reflects the diversity, talent, and strength of Canada.

“At SMART Local 8, we are committed to recruiting, training, and supporting members through every stage of their career journey. Our partnership with Trades Winds to Success reflects that commitment by helping introduce Indigenous Albertans to the sheet metal trade through pre-apprenticeship training and focusing on hireable skills. By connecting participants with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities available through SMART, we are supporting Indigenous communities, strengthening our workforce, and ensuring the next generation of sheet metal workers have the tools they need to succeed,” said Dan Lee, Training Coordinator at SMART Local 8.