Project Overview:
In 2021, Matrix HR was engaged to recruit and mobilize 15 IRATA-certified Welders (Structural & B-Pressure) and Pipefitters for critical shutdown projects at major oil sands sites in Fort McMurray, AB. Given the scarcity of IRATA-certified workers – less than 1% of the workforce possesses this skill – Matrix HR developed a specialized recruitment strategy to fulfill the client’s needs.
Workforce Challenges & Solutions
Securing skilled IRATA Rope Access workers is challenging due to:
- Limited Talent Pool – IRATA certification is costly, time-intensive, and physically demanding.
- High Demand in Shutdown Projects – Tight timelines require rapid mobilization of highly qualified tradespeople.
Matrix HR overcame these challenges by:
- Building a Specialized Talent Pool – Created a dedicated pipeline of IRATA-qualified Welders and Pipefitters.
- Training & Certification Support – Partnered with Career Leap, an Alberta-based program, to access government funding for IRATA certification.
Strong Recruitment Network – Leveraged:
- 25,000+ tradespeople in our internal database
- 50,000+ followers across social media for targeted outreach
- Specialized search engines & job boards for skilled trades recruitment
- Employee referrals & industry connections to expand the talent pipeline
Results & Impact
- 10 IRATA Welders – successfully mobilized
- 100% retention rate – All tradespeople remained on the project through completion
- Industry recognition – Matrix HR was commended for rapid response and effective hiring strategies
- Continued partnership – All Matrix HR employees were retained for future shutdown projects in 2022
By securing and mobilizing hard-to-find skilled trades, Matrix HR reinforced its reputation as a leader in workforce solutions for the oil & gas sector.
