Q: one of our best friends has decided to up an move from windsor to alberta, possibly the edmonton area. he was told--and apparently did some research, that the economy is booming and the rate of pay is phenominal even for jobs like working at mcdonalds. that people are coming from mexico and australia to capitalize on it. we were told that yes jobs are plentiful and pay good, but housing is non existent...i'm talking camping in tents non existent, esp by the oil refineries, and the cost of living is VERY high. we were told that a lot of the people who are moving there, end up coming back cuz it's so expensive, despite the good pay. he keeps getting laid off (working tool n die) and is looking for stablity for his family (g/f, and toddler) so he is now taking his savings and going there to give it a try. we think he's nuts and that it's pretty risky, plus his g/f has a decent job here. i'd just hate to see him lose their savings. can anyone who knows give me some more info please?!?!
A: Yeah, there are LOTS of jobs in Alberta right now, in pretty much all sectors, oil field is taking up alot of employees because they pay well, which leaves everyone else short handed, so forces their wages up, even retail is starting to pay better, walk through any mall and you see help wanted signs on every window. The company my dad works for can't hold onto mechanics to save their life, because they just cant afford to pay what oilfield is willing to pay them. It is true, that accomodations are hard to find right now, but if he is persistant, and possibly willing to share with others, then he will do fine. The only reason I moved away from Alberta is for school, and I was definetly spoiled by how easy it is to get hired there.