For years, Canada has felt the crunch of a growing shortage of skilled tradespeople, particularly in highly technical fields like commercial electrical services. While various factors caused this shortage, one concern that has kept new graduates and young people from entering the trades is the perception of poor working conditions—stories of unsafe job sites, demanding and sometimes dangerous labour, and outdated safety protections all influence the belief that these careers aren’t worthwhile. However, not every commercial electrical company fits this mold.
At Mastadon Controls, safety isn’t just a priority— it’s the foundation of everything we do. Our commitment to protecting commercial electricians and fostering long-term careers is setting a new standard in Alberta. Here’s how we’re leading the way in commercial electrician safety.
The Changing Industry Landscape and Its Impact on Safety
Post-pandemic, Canada tightened health and safety regulations across several trades, including commercial electrical work. While various industries had already been feeling the lack of skilled tradespeople for years, predominantly in residential construction and restoration services, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this impact for commercial, industrial, and civil sectors as well.
Alberta, traditionally known for its strong workforce in the energy and construction sectors, was hit especially hard; over the past decade, enrollment in trade schools has been declining due to a stagnating oil and gas industry as well as a negative perception of ‘blue collar’ jobs persisted.
As Canada and the Prairies specifically evolve to meet higher safety standards and working conditions for skilled tradespeople, Alberta’s skilled labour workforce has started to recover. Interestingly, Alberta has been taking regulatory inspiration from the eastern shores, adopting best practices from provinces like Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, where fabrication services and proximity to Parliament Hill demand strict adherence to high-quality safety standards.
While Alberta has historically had more relaxed standards in most trades, things are changing. Companies like Mastadon are at the forefront of this shift, implementing the latest provincial and federal safety protocols while also ensuring that our electricians have access to up-to-date training, top-tier protective equipment, and well-structured job sites designed to minimize risk.
A Commitment to Employee Retention and Long-Term Careers
While new enrollment has lagged in recent years, one of Alberta’s greatest strengths has been its ability to retain skilled tradespeople. Unlike other provinces that struggle with high turnover rates, Alberta fosters career-long employees in trade sectors. Mastadon Controls is a key player in this movement, creating a company where electricians are valued, supported, and protected.
In the past, many commercial electricians in Alberta faced premature retirement and career burnout due to injuries, inadequate safety protections, and physically taxing work conditions. These challenges forced many to leave the industry earlier than expected, leading to a shortage of experienced electricians. However, companies like Mastadon prioritize employee longevity by emphasizing workplace safety, high-calibre protective equipment, and ongoing professional development.
By investing in the health and well-being of our commercial electricians, Mastadon Controls protects our workers and guarantees a highly skilled and motivated workforce of experienced professionals who can deliver top-tier service and results to our clients.
What This Commitment to Safety Means for Our Clients
Safety standards aren’t just for electricians; they also benefit clients directly. When commercial electrical contractors follow strict operational protocols, job sites run more efficiently, deadlines are met with fewer disruptions, and the risk of costly accidents or liability issues is significantly reduced. At Mastadon Controls, our commitment to safety means:
- Strict adherence to regulations—We stay ahead of evolving health and safety laws at the local, provincial, and federal levels to guarantee compliance and best practices.
- Highly trained professionals – Our electricians undergo continuous training and learning opportunities to keep up with the latest safety techniques and technologies.
- Reliable project execution – Safe work environments with skilled professionals lead to smoother site operations, fewer delays, happier workers, and better client outcomes.
Mastadon Controls is Your Partner for Commercial Electrical Excellence, Safety, and Compliance
The commercial electrical industry is evolving, and safety matters now more than ever. Whether you’re a commercial electrician looking for a company that values your well-being or a business in need of safe and reliable services, Mastadon is the partner you can trust. With a commitment to industry-leading safety practices, employee retention, and high-quality results, we’re shaping the future of commercial electrical services in Alberta— one safe project at a time. Contact our team or visit our website today to learn how Mastadon Controls can put these skills to work for you, too.
