Calgary is experiencing a remarkable upswing in its technology sector, with a recent report from CBRE Group revealing a staggering 56 per cent growth that has resulted in the creation of 28,900 new jobs. This surge is largely attributed to the city’s unique blend of traditional industries and innovation, positioning it as a leader in tech job growth across North America.
A Thriving Ecosystem
Jen Lussier, the CEO of Platform Calgary, emphasized the diverse nature of the local tech landscape. “In Alberta, particularly in Calgary, we have a tech scene that is closely tied to our natural resources and established industries,” she stated. “This includes energy, clean technology, agriculture, and manufacturing—essentially, it’s a comprehensive approach that spans multiple sectors.”
Located at the heart of Calgary’s downtown, Platform Calgary serves as a vital hub for tech entrepreneurs, providing essential support and fostering connections. Lussier remarked, “We like to say it takes a village to raise a startup. Platform works to connect and grow the broader tech community, while also offering direct programming that helps founders develop their products, engage with customers, secure funding, and build their teams.”
Strategic Growth Plans
The growth of Platform Calgary has not happened by chance. Lussier highlighted the importance of the Calgary Economic Development innovation strategy that has been implemented over the past few years. “Over the next three years, Platform will act as a critical referral engine within this strategy,” she noted. “There are specific nodes for each sector, illustrating how technology is integrating into industries such as aerospace, energy, sports, and logistics. This strategic framework is a solid foundational policy for our future.”
Employment opportunities in the tech sector extend beyond the realms of programming and coding; companies are also seeking professionals in sales, human resources, logistics, and more. Nathan Day, head of sales and marketing at TCG Machines, shared insights into his company’s growth journey. “For the past six consecutive years, we have doubled in size,” Day explained. “From our humble beginnings with just our founder for five years, we started with 15 employees and have now expanded to 40.”
A Global Impact
TCG Machines, which has carved out a niche in the trading card industry, recently upgraded to a spacious 15,000 square-foot facility, celebrating a significant milestone of sorting through an impressive billion cards. “The proof is in the pudding, you know what I mean?” Day remarked. “We’re now operating in 24 countries with over 500 units in the field, making a real impact for businesses.”
He added that the success of TCG Machines is not merely a stroke of luck but the result of dedicated effort. “The more enjoyable a job is, the harder you have to work at it,” he noted. “People are drawn to it for its intrinsic value rather than just financial incentives. We have embraced every opportunity because our mission is to provide value to those running trading card businesses.”
Education and Talent Shortages
Despite the impressive growth in tech jobs, Calgary faces challenges in terms of educational output. The CBRE report indicates that out of the nearly 29,000 jobs created, only 3,660 graduates with tech-related degrees emerged from local post-secondary institutions. However, Day expressed optimism about attracting talent to the city. “Calgary has effectively leveraged its existing pool of forward-thinking and ambitious individuals,” he said. “We’re witnessing substantial support from both the local community and provincial and federal governments, reinforcing our confidence in our capabilities and facilitating all that we have accomplished.”
Why it Matters
The burgeoning tech sector in Calgary not only reflects the city’s ability to adapt and innovate but also signifies a shift towards a more diverse and sustainable economic landscape. As the region continues to attract both talent and investment, the implications for local communities and industries are profound. A thriving tech industry can lead to greater job creation, enhanced economic resilience, and a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, ultimately benefiting all Calgarians and setting a benchmark for other cities to follow.
