Get Paid to Train as a Health Care Aide in Alberta
Looking to launch a meaningful career in health care without the burden of tuition fees or lost income?
Alberta Health Services (AHS) offers a unique opportunity to become a certified Health Care Aide (HCA) while earning a paycheck.
This government-funded fast-track program helps you quickly enter the frontlines of Alberta’s healthcare sector, opening a stable and highly rewarding career path.
🚨 Why Alberta Needs More Health Care Aides — Now More Than Ever
Alberta is facing a critical shortage of Health Care Aides, especially in rural and remote communities. The growing senior population increases demand for compassionate and skilled professionals who support daily living and long-term care needs.
To address this, AHS has developed a comprehensive training program that simultaneously fills workforce gaps and builds a qualified HCA talent pool without compromising care standards.
⭐ Program Highlights: What Makes This HCA Training Unique?
This is not your typical classroom course. AHS has developed a career-focused, hands-on training model that is fast, practical, and provincially recognized.
✅ Earn While You Learn
Participants can work during the training program and receive hourly pay, allowing them to gain both skills and income simultaneously.
✅ Official Recognition
Graduates receive provincial certification and are eligible to join the Alberta Health Care Aide Registry.
✅ High Employment Opportunities
Graduates can secure positions directly with various healthcare facilities across Alberta, ensuring a smooth career path.
✅ Cost-Friendly
The program covers course materials, uniforms, and training fees, minimizing financial barriers so learners can focus on training and hands-on experience.
📚 What You’ll Learn in a Short Timeframe
This approximately 12-month program combines online learning with in-person clinical practice, focusing on essential skills to provide safe and compassionate care.
Core training topics include:
Assisting clients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding
Supporting individuals with dementia and chronic illnesses
Infection prevention and safety protocols
Effective communication with clients, families, and health professionals
Emergency response techniques and professional conduct
Clinical placements under experienced instructors at AHS sites provide practical experience to complement theory.
Who Can Apply?
AHS offers a specialized training program for unregistered HCAs employed full-time or part-time in rural or remote AHS locations, helping them obtain official certification.
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
✅ 18 years of age or older
✅ Eligible to work legally in Canada
✅ Able to pass a criminal background check
✅ Up-to-date immunizations and basic health clearance
✅ Available to work full-time throughout the training program
💡 No prior experience or certification is required
🎤 Real Story: From Unemployed to Frontline Hero
Meet Sophia, 29, from Calgary:
“I had been struggling to find stable work after finishing school.When I learned that AHS offered paid HCA training, I didn’t hesitate to apply.Just a couple of weeks later, I started the program, and the support from the instructors was amazing.Now I’m working full-time in a healthcare facility, and every day is rewarding.I finally feel like I’m building a meaningful career and truly helping people.”
💼 Career Outlook: What Comes After Training?
Health Care Aides trained through this program have strong job prospects across Alberta, including:
Long-term care homes
Assisted living facilities
Hospital inpatient units
Community and home health programs
💰During the training program, starting pay ranges from $21.43 to $25.52 USD per hour. According to current data, for experienced and highly qualified HCAs in Canada, hourly rates can reach $40–45 CAD.In addition, these positions typically offer full benefits, union coverage, and paid time off.
📈 HCAs have abundant career advancement options, with the potential to progress to:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Care Coordinator
📝 How to Apply
Step 1: Submit an Online Application
Complete your application through the Alberta Health Services (AHS) official website or contact your local workforce center.
Step 2: Attend an Information Session
Learn about the training program, course expectations, and potential career pathways to make informed decisions.
Step 3: Complete Eligibility Screening and Background Checks
Provide required documentation, up-to-date immunization records, and complete a police background check.
Step 4: Begin Training and Receive Pay
Once approved, start your paid training program. You will receive details on course schedules, training locations, and necessary materials.
All courses are conducted at AHS facilities or official partner locations, ensuring a high-quality learning experience.
🚀 Opportunity for a Fulfilling Career
This program offers a rare chance to enter a rewarding healthcare career with financial support and professional mentorship. For individuals interested in contributing to Alberta’s healthcare system, paid training as a Health Care Aide provides an accessible and impactful pathway.