Information, Culture and Recreation Industry

September 2008

The Information, Culture and Recreation industry employed about 76,200 Albertans in 2007. The industry is expected to grow by a yearly average of 2.3 per cent, employing about 85,100 in 2012. The 2007 unemployment rate was 3.7 per cent (the average for all industries was 3.5 per cent).

The Information, Culture and Recreation industry includes establishments such as:

· software, Internet, newspaper, periodical and book publishers

· motion picture and sound recording companies

· broadcasting and telecommunications companies

· Internet service providers, web search portals and data processing services

· libraries, archives and heritage institutions (museums, historic sites, zoos, botanical gardens)

· performing arts companies

· amusement parks and arcades

· casinos and lotteries

· golf courses, skiing facilities, and fitness and recreational sports centres.

Industry Outlook

Information adapted from the Information, Culture and Recreation Industry profile (September 2008)

Alberta’s Occupational Demand and Supply Outlook (2007-2017) forecasts a supply shortage for the following occupations in the forecast period:

· librarians, archivists, conservators and curators

· technical occupations in libraries, archives, museums and art galleries

· announcers and performers

· creative designers and craftspersons.

On average, a supply surplus is expected for the following occupations:

· creative and performing artists

· writing, translating and public relations professionals

· photographers, graphic arts technicians and co-ordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts

· athletes, coaches, referees and related occupations.

Information adapted from Alberta Career and Industry Outlook (August 2008)

Alberta should remain an attractive location for movie and television program production thanks to its skilled crews, producers and performers, its majestic and varied scenery and its impressive record as a one-of-a-kind backdrop for blockbusters like Brokeback Mountain and Broken Trail. With work being done to create a new business case for sustainable growth of screen-based industries, the sector is well positioned to capitalize on its reputation. With increased grants and a provincial plan to double production to $400 million by the end of 2008, the industry is positioned for growth.

Although an appreciated Canadian currency may reduce the number of international visitors, domestic travel and spending in Alberta is expected to remain robust, thanks both to a booming economy and an enduring wealth of recreational opportunities.

An increasing concern with personal health and well-being by many suggest strong demand for recreational and fitness facilities and programs. Athletic occupations, coaches, referees and related jobs are, accordingly, expected to be in demand.

Work in this industry

Alberta occupational profiles that describe various types of work in this industry are listed in OCCinfo's Search by Industry: Information, Culture and Recreation