The Growing Demand for Nurses in Canada
Industry experts, like the World Economic Forum (WEF), focus on future job trends and the skills professionals will need. Technology-related roles, such as programmers, engineers, and marketing specialists, are expected to be in high demand. However, careers that require human interaction will also see rapid growth.
WEF reports that 65% of today’s elementary school students will work in jobs that don’t yet exist. This highlights two key trends:
- Education and continued learning are more important than ever.
- Jobs in human care, like nursing and healthcare support, will be in high demand.
Why Healthcare Jobs Are on the Rise
People are living longer, increasing the demand for healthcare aides and practical nurses. A Conference Board of Canada report predicts the need for nurses will more than double in the next ten years. The number of required nurses will rise from 64,000 to 142,000.
Currently, over 1.4 million seniors in Canada need ongoing care. By 2026, this number will increase by 71%. Seniors make up nearly one-third of the population, and Canada needs more healthcare workers to support them. Nurses and health aides play a critical role in providing this care.
Nursing Salaries in Alberta
Alberta offers some of the highest wages for nurses. Salaries here exceed those in British Columbia and Ontario. The top hourly wage for a clinical nurse specialist is $55.93 per hour.
A Career That Stays in Demand
Nursing offers job security and a rewarding career. Columbia College’s Practical Nurse Professional Diploma Program had a 100% employment rate in 2017. This program prepares students in Alberta for long-term success in healthcare.
Start Your Nursing Career
The next Practical Nurse Program start date is May 2019. Learn more here.
