CCI's Statement on Alberta's Planned Removal of Restrictions on the Use of 'Software Engineer' Title

Today in Edmonton, Alberta’s Advanced Education Minister Rajan Sawhney announced her intent to introduce legislative amendments to Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act. Alberta Technology and Innovation Minister Nate Glubish also spoke in support of the proposed legislation at the announcement.

In the press conference, the Minister outlined the spirit of these changes, and we look forward to the amendments as they are tabled in the legislature today. CCI anticipates these changes will positively and constructively address many challenges local innovators have expressed regarding the restriction of the use of “Software Engineer” in job titles and job descriptions in Alberta.

On behalf of innovators leading high-growth, homegrown companies in Alberta, CCI President Benjamin Bergen has issued the following statement:

“The Council of Canadian Innovators is thrilled that Alberta has removed onerous restrictions around the use of the term “software engineer” and its related variations. The bill represents significant red tape reduction that will allow the province’s innovative entrepreneurs to shore up the skilled talent they need to scale up their operations.

While recognizing that P.Eng.'s will continue to play an important role in safeguarding Albertans’ safety, the province is making room for tech companies and their employees to use the credentials that are recognized by the broader global technology labour force. CCI and our member companies have engaged with government at every opportunity in order to bring about this welcome change. Introduction of this legislation also frees the Council up to work with our valued partners in the Government of Alberta to work toward broader shared policy goals that will support the province’s flourishing tech industry.”

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Media Inquiries:

Patrick Searle

psearle@canadianinnovators.org

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