Get Paid to Train as a Health Care Aide in Alberta
Want to step into the healthcare field but worry about time or tuition?
Alberta Health Services (AHS) is offering a government-supported, paid Health Care Aide (HCA) training program — no prior experience required, with most costs covered by the public health system.
This is a fast-track pathway to a stable healthcare career, This program helps you earn certification and prepares you for frontline care opportunities within Alberta’s healthcare system.
🚨 Why Is Alberta Urgently Seeking More Health Care Aides?
With the aging population, Alberta’s long-term care centers, hospitals, and community programs are facing unprecedented staffing shortages.
Health Care Aides (HCAs) are essential for daily living support and long-term patient care.
That’s why AHS has launched this innovative training program — designed to train new HCAs quickly, without lowering standards or certification requirements.
⭐ Program Highlights
✅ Earn While You Learn
You’ll be paid as an employee while completing your training.
✅ Official Certification
Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible for the provincial registry (HCA Directory).
✅ High Employment Demand
Positions are immediately available across Alberta’s healthcare system.
✅ Minimal Cost
Tuition, textbooks, uniforms, and training fees are covered by the program, with only small personal expenses.
🏛️ Government Support & Funding
This is not a private course — it is delivered and funded through Alberta Health Services, the province’s public healthcare system.
- Most training expenses, materials, and uniforms are provided, so you don’t need to worry about major upfront costs;
- You are employed by AHS during training, with wages and benefits;
- The program prioritizes rural and remote communities, aligning with Alberta’s healthcare workforce strategy.
In short, this is a government-backed pathway that reduces both the cost and risk of starting a healthcare career.
📚 Skills You’ll Gain
Over about 12 months, you’ll build hands-on skills to provide care in multiple settings:
- Assisting with daily living (bathing, dressing, eating, mobility support)
- Supporting dementia and chronic illness patients
- Infection prevention and safety protocols
- Communicating with patients, families, and healthcare teams
- Handling emergencies with professionalism
You’ll also complete a clinical placement with guidance from experienced AHS instructors.
👩⚕️ Who Can Apply?
To join the Alberta HCA Training Program, applicants must:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Be proficient in English
- Live in a rural or remote community in Alberta
- No prior healthcare experience or certification is required
👥 Advantages by Age Group
- 18–24 years old: Perfect for recent graduates or first-time job seekers. The program provides stable income and a clear career path into healthcare.
- 25–34 years old: Ideal for career changers. Paid training removes financial stress while you transition into a high-demand field.
- 35–44 years old: Great for balancing family responsibilities with stable employment. Flexible scheduling helps manage work-life needs.
- 45–54 years old: Brings valuable life experience to patient care. Communication, empathy, and patience are strong assets at this stage.
- 55+ years old: For those who wish to stay active in the workforce, this role values experience, compassion, and community contribution.
💼 Career Path After Training
Once completed, you’ll be a certified Health Care Aide ready for employment.
Workplaces include:
- Long-term care centers
- Assisted living facilities
- Hospital inpatient units
- Community and home care services
Compensation and Benefits:
- Starting wage around $20–26/hour
- Full benefits, union protection, paid vacation
- Clear advancement pathway to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or care coordinator roles
📝 How to Apply
Step 1: Apply online via the AHS website or local employment center.
Step 2: Attend an information session to explore details.
Step 3: Submit background and health documentation.
Step 4: Begin training — receive your badge, uniform, and start hands-on practice.
🚀 Don’t Miss This Opportunity
If you’re looking for a meaningful, stable career with strong growth potential — while earning an income — this program was designed for you.
Take the first step today:
Transform your future and begin a career that makes a difference.