Thanks to a new $450,000 investment from RBC Foundation, Bow Valley College is taking action to bridge the gap between industry needs and newcomer talent. Through the Workforce Development Lab—an initiative designed to close Calgary’s labour gaps and unlock opportunities for learners—the College is helping individuals gain the skills that prepare them for in-demand roles across the province.

Every year, tens of thousands of newcomers arrive in Alberta—more than 60,000 in 2023 alone—with hopes of building meaningful careers. Yet many face barriers: international credentials aren’t always recognized, Canadian work experience is often required and professional networks can be limited. Meanwhile, employers in the health care, technology, manufacturing and hospitality sectors struggle to fill critical roles, leaving skilled individuals underemployed and jobs unfilled. The Lab helps learners overcome these barriers through a flexible, accessible and skills-focused approach that aligns with labour market needs.

The Workforce Development Lab

This transformative investment builds on RBC Foundation’s long-standing partnership with Bow Valley College, with lifetime giving now surpassing $1 million. It reflects a shared commitment to creating inclusive pathways that prepare newcomers and learners of all backgrounds for the future of work. The Lab emphasizes career-ready skills, innovation and hands-on experience—helping learners earn credentials that translate directly into employment.

Through short, targeted micro-credentials and work-integrated learning opportunities, learners gain employer-validated training in high-demand fields. These flexible programs support Alberta’s industries by building talent pipelines in AI-integrated business administration, cybersecurity, digital design, health and hospitality industries. By equipping learners with these practical skills, the Lab helps fill workforce gaps while offering accelerated pathways to employment for those who may lack Canadian experience or recognized credentials.

“This gift directly strengthens the programs that connect learners to opportunity,” said Dr. Misheck Mwaba, president and CEO of Bow Valley College. “Through the upskilling and reskilling we provide, individuals will gain employer-validated skills that open doors to new careers. With RBC’s support, we are guiding more learners from aspiration to employment.”

Building on the Pivot-Ed Academy

The Lab expands on the success of the RBC-funded Pivot-Ed Academy, which has helped young learners gain micro-credentials in areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity and digital design. Since its launch, Pivot-Ed has supported more than 100 participants in developing job-ready skills, with several graduates securing employment directly linked to their new credentials. One participant credited the Digital Design program with helping them land a summer position and immediately apply their skills by creating logo designs for real clients.

The Workforce Development Lab also serves as an innovation hub, using real-time labour market data to anticipate emerging skills needs. Each year, it aims to enroll 60 participants, engage 20 employer and community partners and launch three new micro-credentials in priority fields—ensuring learners stay career-ready in a rapidly evolving economy.

A framework for career success

This initiative also advances Bow Valley College’s strategic plan pillar, Dynamic Ecosystem for Career Success—a commitment to building a robust career development framework that provides learners with lifetime access to career development services and resources. By connecting education to industry needs and emphasizing hands-on learning, the Workforce Development Lab helps learners prepare for success in high-demand sectors such as technology, health care, manufacturing and hospitality.

In addition, there are many aspects of the College’s Launch Advance Evolve strategic plan that align directly with RBC Foundation community investment priorities—helping people prepare for a changing world of work by building in-demand skills, gaining meaningful work experience and earning industry-recognized credentials.

“We value our 20+ year partnership with Bow Valley College and appreciate their meaningful impact on students and education over the years,” said Kirk Muise, regional president, RBC, Alberta and Territories. “We are pleased to be able to support newcomers and others in building for a thriving future by combining technical training with work-integrated learning. At RBC, we want our communities to keep pace with the changing world of work to drive mobility, innovation and resilience, especially the practical approach offered by our partner Bow Valley College.”

Looking ahead

Bow Valley College extends its sincere appreciation to the RBC Foundation for its visionary investment in the future of Canada’s workforce. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to inclusion, innovation and lifelong learning—creating pathways that build skills, strengthen communities and prepare Canadians to succeed in the workforce. We’re proud to advance this work in Calgary and the surrounding region, helping learners gain the skills and experience needed to meet evolving labour market demands.

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