Private career colleges are an essential part of Alberta’s workforce development strategy, preparing learners for roles that directly support economic growth and community needs. The Alberta Association of Career Colleges (AACC) welcomes the introduction of Bill 3: the Private Vocational Training Amendment Act, and has been an active participant in ongoing discussions to strengthen accountability, enhance student protections and ensure Alberta’s regulated training system continues to meet labour-market priorities.
The proposed amendments represent an important step in reinforcing accountability, strengthening student protections and ensuring that the regulated career education system continues to serve Alberta’s labour-market priorities. By promoting consistency and higher standards across the sector, these updates will help safeguard students while supporting responsible institutions that already uphold strong compliance practices.
“Members of the Alberta Association of Career Colleges have long upheld the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and student care in Alberta’s private training sector. We see these legislative updates as an important step in bringing the entire system up to the same level of accountability that our members already practice. These measures will ensure that responsible institutions continue to thrive while students are better protected from those who do not meet these standards.”
–Tim Ogilvie, Chair, Alberta Association of Career Colleges
AACC values ongoing collaboration with government partners, regulatory bodies and sector leaders whose dedication continues to shape a strong and responsive training ecosystem in Alberta. We extend our appreciation to those contributing to this important work, including:
• Honourable Myles McDougall, BA (Econ), MBA, ECA, Minister of Advanced Education, MLA Calgary-Fish Creek
• Private Career Colleges and Compliance Branch (PCCCB)
• Michael Sangster, Chief Executive Officer, National Association of Career Colleges
• Courtney Mo (Hare), Director of Community Impact, Momentum Calgary
For further information, please see:
• Government News Release: https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=951467F8C2D15-BAB0-55C5-8D64283C4735E8E9
• News Conference Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WftlEgoe6cs
• Bill 3 Overview: https://docs.assembly.ab.ca/LADDAR_files/docs/bills/bill/legislature_31/session_2/20251023_bill-003.pdf
AACC remains committed to advocacy that supports strong outcomes for learners, institutions, and the employers who rely on them. As Alberta’s economy continues to evolve, private career colleges stand ready to equip future professionals with the skills needed to succeed.
