Amazon Web Services Inc. (AWS) announced it will make a multi-billion-dollar investment on a new cloud computing operation in Calgary, the government announced Monday..“It’s estimated this investment will create close to 1,000 new jobs through a total investment of $4.3 billion, making it perhaps the largest single investment in the history of the province’s tech sector,” said the UCP government in a press release..Alberta Premier Jason Kenney was thrilled with the news, calling it a “game-changer.”.“This investment is another example of the rapidly expanding technology and innovation sector in Alberta and yet more proof that Alberta’s Recovery Plan is working to create jobs and diversify the economy. Today’s historic investment by Amazon Web Services adds to the fantastic momentum in Alberta’s tech sector, and that’s a great sign for our overall economic recovery and future growth,” said Kenney..The UCP noted Budget 2021 invested an additional $175 million in the Alberta Enterprise Corporation to boost venture capital in Alberta’s tech sector and created the Innovation Employment Grant to support efforts to train workers for Alberta’s growing tech sector. .AWS operates 25 tech centres around the world, including one other in Canada, in Montreal..Work has already started on one of the local data centres in the hopes of launching in late 2023 or early 2024..Amazon said it will invest an estimated $21 billion in its two Canadian infrastructure regions by 2037, which will create more than 5,000 jobs..Mount Royal University is already starting a program to help AWS find trained workers..It is offering a job skills training program that prepares individuals for entry-level roles in cloud computing and connects them to potential employers..“The online offering is a 12-week, full-time skills development program to jump-start your career working in cloud computing. The initiative — offered at no cost to participants — is focused on unemployed and underemployed professionals in the Calgary area who have been displaced from the oil and gas sector or related industry. A technology background is not required,” said the university..“After you graduate, Mount Royal’s Faculty of Continuing Education will support you through the interview process for entry-level cloud roles.”.“Alberta’s tech sector is maturing rapidly and is a driver of employment and diversification. Technology and innovation are essential for growth and success in all industries and investments. Amazon Web Services can help kick-start growth in other sectors,” said the government in a release..“There are so many reasons to be optimistic about Alberta’s tech sector. Alberta is on track for a record year in venture capital and tech investment, creating thousands of jobs and diversifying our economy. This transformative investment from Amazon Web Services clearly demonstrates Alberta is a top destination for tech investment and talent,” said Jobs Minister Doug Schweitzer..Dave Naylor is the News Editor of the Western Standard.,dnaylor@westernstandardonline.com,.Twitter.com/nobby7694
