Technology Alberta FIRST Jobs Pilot Program
6 sessions running from 2021-2023
Applications for Companies currently being accepted for 2023.
Purpose of the Program
The FIRST (First Industry Research Science Technology) Jobs program offers a work placement and meaningful work experience for a current student or recent graduate of an Alberta post-secondary institution while supporting the growth of Alberta’s SME Tech Sector. The student placement is to be an integrated learning and work experience. Relevant professional topics are situated in the context of the workplace and are offered as a vehicle to enhance workplace performance – both for the young professionals and for the companies themselves.
Eligibility Information
Eligible Technology Companies:
- Operating and registered in Alberta and/or has a significant Alberta presence with offices in the province
- Must be a small-to-medium-sized enterprise (SME, under 100 employees)
- Able to provide meaningful work experience to a student, including by providing mentorship and support
- Will develop one or more projects to be completed over a 20-week period / 200 hours
- Are working in the tech sector to bring innovation to the province, creating advanced technologies as their core business
Companies should be ready to commit to:
- Pay their young professional the $4000 fellowship allowance prior to program reimbursement. (Eg. $2000 – After week 10 (Reimbursed 2-4 weeks later); Remaining $2000 After Week 20 (Also reimbursed 2-4 weeks later))
- Employing their young professional at an appropriate level (ex. junior) for 10 hours a week for a period of 20 weeks (or as mutually agreed) for a total of 200 hours
- Providing mentorship and guidance to their young professional throughout the work term
- Participating in a Company Showcase once during their respective cohort
Appropriate Project Topics/Roles include (but are not limited to):
- User Interface Design
- Software Development
- Customer Experience
- Product Marketing and Communications
- Product Design and Documentation
- Project Coordination
Each company will be able to interview the candidates who are interested in their positions.
Value for companies that participate in this program:
- Meet promising new talent for possible future employment
- Become a mentor to student aspiring to work in Alberta’s tech sector
- Grow their networks with the other 50 tech companies and the 50 youth participants
- Learn about Alberta’s tech community through information and panel sessions with other FIRST Jobs participants
- No funding matching required by companies
We invite you to join us in inspiring Alberta’s post-secondary students and young professionals to strengthen our growing Tech Sector with their talent.
Additional Resources
| Pre-Program Sessions |
| Note: All material will be posted, and provided as on-line content, or video resources |
| Defining a Project. Information can be found here. |
| Company General Information session. See Company Resources. |
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For questions about the program or the application form, please contact our program staff at: Info@technologyalberta.ca