VERMILION — Regional economic development, workforce needs and attracting new investment were on the table as provincial officials made a stop in Vermilion during a tour of northeast Alberta.

Assistant Deputy Minister Lisa Ross-Rodriguez with Alberta’s Ministry of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration and Lisa Ford, Regional Economic Development Specialist with the ministry, met with local and regional representatives during the visit.

The discussion focused on opportunities and challenges facing communities across the region, including workforce needs, investment attraction and emerging opportunities for economic growth.

The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss the role regional partnerships can play in strengthening northeast Alberta’s economy rather than communities working independently.

Representatives taking part included Town of Vermilion Economic Development Officer Mary Lee Prior, Wendy Wagner with the County of Vermilion River and Katlin Ducherer with the City of Lloydminster.

Lakeland College hosted the group at its Dairy Learning Centre, with President and CEO Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart also taking part.

The Town said it plans to continue building relationships with neighbouring municipalities, the province, Lakeland College and other regional partners as it works to support existing communities and businesses while pursuing new economic opportunities.