Since Nov 2017, Alanna Marklund has worked with the UA Canadian National office in Ottawa, ON as the representative for Youth, Diversity and Indigenous Relations. Her role works to expand opportunities in the UA for underrepresented groups entering the trades. She collaborates with the UA Canada training department to develop curriculum designed to improve awareness and educate on the needs of a diverse and inclusive workforce. Additionally, she works with various programs to encourage the retention of skilled trades workers and underrepresented groups, as well as initiatives that encourage youth of all backgrounds to enter the piping trades. Alanna is also involved with UA Canada’s National Wellness Program, which provides benefits for maternity, parental, pregnancy and mental health programs for UA members and their families.

Alanna is a Red-Seal endorsed Welder with Grade-B Pressure Welding certification. She spent her early career in pipe fabrication. In 2015, Alanna started her career at Alberta Pipe Trades College as welding instructor where she delivered various welding curricula to apprenticeship students. During her apprenticeship, Alanna competed in the UA International Apprenticeship Competition in Ann Arbor, MI, in the category of welding. She was the first woman to compete at the competition in its 50-plus year history, and she was awarded the Allyn Parmenter and George Bliss UA Directors of Training Award. This award recognizes an apprentice who demonstrates exceptional leadership and honors the ideals set forth by the UA Standard for Excellence.

She began her career with the United Association in 2012 with Local 488 in Edmonton, AB.