Calgary’s technology landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, as highlighted by a recent report from the CBRE Group. The sector has expanded by an impressive 56%, resulting in the creation of 28,900 new jobs. This remarkable progress positions Calgary at the forefront of tech job growth across North America, with experts attributing this success to the city’s unique blend of traditional industries and innovative tech solutions.
A Diverse Tech Ecosystem
Jen Lussier, the CEO of Platform Calgary, notes that the city’s tech sector is heavily influenced by its natural resources and traditional industries. “In Alberta and in Calgary, specifically, there’s a lot of tech that’s based on our natural resources and traditional industries,” Lussier explained, highlighting the integration of technology into sectors such as energy, agriculture, clean tech, and manufacturing.
Platform Calgary, situated in the city’s downtown, is a pivotal hub for tech entrepreneurs. It provides essential support and networking opportunities for those within the tech space. Lussier emphasised the collaborative spirit of the tech community: “We like to say it takes a village to raise a startup. Platform works to connect and grow the broader tech community, but we also have direct programming that helps a founder build a product, learn how to find a customer, and understand the financial aspects of their business.”
Strategic Growth and Employment Opportunities
The report illustrates that employment in Calgary’s tech sector is not restricted to programmers and developers. Companies are seeking a diverse array of professionals, including roles in sales, human resources, and logistics. Nathan Day, head of sales and marketing at TCG Machines, shared insights into his company’s remarkable growth. “For the past six consecutive years, we have doubled in size,” he noted, reflecting on the journey from a single founder to a team of 40 employees. TCG Machines, which focuses on trading card technologies, recently expanded into a spacious 15,000 square-foot facility, having achieved a milestone of processing one billion cards.
Day highlighted the tangible impact his company has made: “We’re now in 24 countries, with just over 500 units in operation. This is making a real difference for people.” The success of TCG Machines is attributed to years of dedication and hard work, as Day explained, “The more fun a job is, the harder you have to work at it… our mission is to provide value for people running trading card businesses.”
Bridging the Talent Gap
Despite the impressive job creation, Calgary’s education sector faces challenges in keeping pace with demand. The CBRE report revealed that of the 28,900 new tech positions, only 3,660 graduates with relevant degrees emerged from local post-secondary institutions. This disparity raises questions about the city’s capacity to sustain its burgeoning tech industry.
However, Nathan Day remains optimistic about Calgary’s ability to attract talent. He remarked, “Calgary has done an excellent job of leveraging what we already had, which was forward-thinking and ambitious people. We’re seeing so much support both from Calgary and the province, and on a federal level.” This support not only bolsters local confidence but also fosters an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
Why it Matters
Calgary’s tech sector is not only contributing to the local economy but also establishing the city as a burgeoning hub for innovation. The impressive 56% growth and 28,900 new jobs signify a shift in the economic landscape, driven by a combination of traditional industries and emerging technologies. As the city navigates the challenges of education and talent acquisition, its commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment will be crucial in sustaining this momentum. The integration of technology into various sectors promises to redefine Calgary’s economic future, making it a key player on the North American tech stage.