In the world of business, a company’s success is often determined not just by its idea or product, but by the team that drives it. Olds, Alberta, with its unique blend of talent, training facilities, and community spirit, is emerging as a prime location for businesses to build and nurture their teams. Here’s why:
1. A Growing Talent Pool in Olds:
Olds has witnessed consistent growth over the years. From a population of 5,005 in 1986, it surged to 9,209 by 2021. This steady increase, with a projected population of 10,048 by 2027, ensures a continuous influx of fresh talent into the community. Moreover, with an unemployment rate of 6.7%, similar to major cities like Calgary and Red Deer, Olds offers a pool of ready-to-engage professionals across various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and retail.
2. High-Quality Training in Business Management and Hospitality & Tourism Programs at Olds College of Agriculture and Technology:
Olds is home to the renowned Olds College of Agriculture and Technology. This institution has been at the forefront of agricultural innovations, with its Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production being a testament to its commitment to cutting-edge research and training. The presence of such an institution ensures businesses have access to a stream of well-trained graduates, ready to bring their expertise to the workforce.
3. Quality of Life Draws Talent:
Olds offers more than just job opportunities. With its blend of urban amenities and small-town charm, it’s a place where people want to live and work. The town’s commitment to safety, reflected in its Crime Severity Index (CSI) of 84.07 in 2022, significantly lower than the Alberta provincial average, adds to its appeal. Olds stands out with its diverse workforce. The Sales and Service industry takes the lead as the most prominent sector in the town, closely followed by Trades, Transport & Equipment Operators. This dominance of specific industries indicates a rich pool of skilled professionals in these areas, ready to be tapped into.
4. Community Engagement and Support:
Olds is a town that believes in community. Annual events, local business promotions, and a genuine sense of pride in home-grown brands make it a nurturing environment for both startups and established businesses. This community spirit translates into a supportive environment for businesses, fostering loyalty and commitment among employees.
5. Forward-Thinking Infrastructure:
The town’s proactive investment in infrastructure projects ensures long-term economic sustainability. With services like the community-owned gigabit internet services O-net, Olds is equipped to meet the modern demands of businesses and their teams.
6. A Vision of Sustainable Growth:
Olds isn’t just focused on the present; it’s building for the future. In its commitment to community-centric development, Olds conducted a comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment, drawing data from sources like Statistics Canada and Alberta Health Services. Between February 24 and March 16, 2023, residents were engaged through a widely-promoted survey, both online and at local hubs. This blend of community feedback and robust data analysis enabled the Town Administration to craft tailored housing strategies, ensuring decisions resonate with the genuine needs of Olds’ residents.
For businesses looking to build a team that’s not just skilled but also committed and engaged, Olds offers the perfect blend of talent, training, and community spirit. With its unique advantages and forward-thinking approach, Olds is poised to be the destination of choice for discerning entrepreneurs and investors.
