Calgary’s technology industry is experiencing a remarkable surge, as highlighted in a recent report by the CBRE Group. The sector has expanded by a staggering 56 per cent, resulting in the creation of 28,900 new jobs. Jen Lussier, CEO of Platform Calgary, indicated that the growth is deeply interconnected with the region’s traditional industries, including energy, clean tech, agriculture, and manufacturing. This rapid development positions Calgary as a leader in North America for the percentage of new tech job creation.
A Thriving Hub for Innovation
Located in the heart of Calgary, Platform Calgary serves as a vital nexus for entrepreneurs and tech professionals, providing essential support and fostering connections. “We like to say it takes a village to raise a startup,” quipped Lussier, emphasising the collaborative spirit of the community. The organisation not only connects individuals but also offers tailored programmes that equip founders with the skills to build their products, engage customers, secure funding, and expand their teams.
Lussier explained that the success of Platform Calgary is the result of a concerted effort over time. “The Calgary Economic Development innovation strategy has been put in place, and over the next three years, Platform is the critical referral engine at the middle of that,” she noted. This strategy identifies key sectors where technology intersects, such as aerospace, energy, sports, and logistics, ensuring a solid foundation for continued growth.
Diverse Opportunities in Tech
The demand for talent in Calgary’s tech scene extends beyond just software developers and coders. There is a growing need for professionals in sales, human resources, logistics, and various other roles. Nathan Day, head of sales and marketing at TCG Machines, highlighted his company’s impressive growth trajectory. “For the past six consecutive years, we have doubled in size,” he remarked, noting that the firm has expanded from a mere founder to a team of 40 employees in just a few years.
TCG Machines, which focuses on trading card technology, has recently moved into a more spacious facility of over 15,000 square feet and celebrated a significant milestone of processing one billion cards. “The proof is in the pudding,” Day asserted. “We’re now in 24 countries, with just over 500 units in the field, making a real impact for people.”
Challenges in Education and Workforce
Despite the influx of new tech jobs, Calgary faces a challenge in terms of education. The CBRE report revealed that only 3,660 graduates with tech-related degrees emerged from local post-secondary institutions to fill the nearly 29,000 positions created. Nevertheless, Day expressed confidence in the city’s ability to attract talent. “Calgary has done an excellent job of leveraging what we already had, which was forward-thinking and ambitious people,” he stated. The support from municipal, provincial, and federal levels further bolsters the confidence of local businesses.
The growth of the tech sector is not merely a stroke of luck but the culmination of years of dedication and hard work. Day emphasised the intrinsic value of the work in the tech community: “The more fun a job is, the harder you have to work at it.” This ethos drives companies like TCG Machines to seize opportunities that ultimately enhance the lives of business owners within their niche.
Why it Matters
The explosive growth of Calgary’s tech industry signifies a substantial shift in the region’s economic landscape. As the city embraces innovation and diversifies its workforce, it not only enhances local job prospects but also positions itself as a competitive player on the global stage. The collaboration between various sectors and the commitment to nurturing talent are crucial for sustaining this momentum. Ultimately, Calgary’s evolving tech scene showcases its potential to lead in the future of technology, driving both economic growth and community development.
