Women in Trades

What advice do you have for young people looking to pursue a career in the trades?

There are many benefits to a career in skilled trades for people of all skill sets. Education is assessable, you can earn while you learn through apprenticeship, and the possibilities for advancement are endless. The wages are substantial, and with the current demand of skilled trades professionals globally, employment is very stable.

Given the lack of diversity in trades, what would you say needs to be done to advance the presence of minority groups like women?

Thankfully, in recent years there has been a fantastic effort on behalf of our government, employers, and organizations like Skills

Ontario and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. They are making great strides to create campaigns and programs to change the negative perceptions about the skilled trades. I believe, by educating the young minds of today about the importance of equality, diversity, inclusive work cultures, and the importance of infrastructure, we can have an extraordinary impact on the future of the industry for everyone.

When did you know you wanted a career in the trades?

I think somewhere deep inside I always knew, however, I wasn’t aware of skilled trades pathways and apprenticeships when I was in high school. Initially I pursued a career in health care as my parents suggested, but I always felt like something was missing.  In

2002 a chance meeting with a former high school classmate changed my life. I was made aware of the apprenticeship, applied, and was accepted. Almost 20 years later, I love everything about my career. The journey has not always been easy, but it’s definitely worth it.

What would you say has been the most rewarding part about having a career in the trades?

The skilled trades offer endless rewards. High earning potential, the ability to travel globally, diversity, equal pay, but most of all job satisfaction. Nothing beats the sense of accomplishment you experience being part of a hard-working crew of skilled professionals bringing infrastructure to life. It’s empowering.

What Does a Skilled Tradesperson Look Like? Skills Ontario Answers.

It

Emina Jakupović

Long-running initiatives

Misconceptions around skilled careers include that they’re dirty, only suited for men, don’t pay well, and are for those who can’t advance in education. Skills Ontario disproves these myths every day, and through our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity initiatives, we’re making sure that youth know the skilled trades and technologies welcome all.

For over twenty years, Skills Ontario has been running its Young Women’s Initiatives program. Through experiential learning, mentorship, and networking opportunities, we’ve reached thousands of young women with an aim to inspire them to explore career paths they may have never considered before or might have even been discouraged from considering.

Just last year, our annual Young Women’s Conference saw over 7,000 virtual attendees — a record high for Skills Ontario. Along with Career Exploration Events, an International Day of the Girl virtual activity series, and more, young women of all ages are learning that skilled careers are not just for boys.

“We don’t just want more women in trades;

we need them,” says Lindsay Chester, Young Women’s Initiatives Program Manager. “There is strength in diversity, and when we make young women feel inspired and empowered, it is a win for everyone.”

Skills Ontario has also been running First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Initiatives since 2011 and continues to engage Indigenous youth through Skilled Trades & Tech Days, Student Conferences, and more.

New initiatives

Over the past two years, Skills Ontario has expanded its programming to be inclusive of other groups, such as persons with exceptionalities and people of colour. Over 2,000 viewed our very first Persons with Exceptionalities Conference in March 2021 and heard from speakers who presented and shared resources.

“As an organization dedicated to empowering youth to explore careers in the skilled trades and technologies, we work to ensure that all Ontarians feel welcomed and included in these fields,” says Ian Howcroft, CEO of Skills Ontario. “Through our programs and initiatives, we emphasize that the skilled

trades and technologies are suitable for all. We will continue to put our efforts into making sure all Ontarians feel included, heard, and appreciated.”

Skills Ontario plans to expand its portfolio to relinquish outdated and exclusionary stigmas, and even launched a new Skills Wear line in summer 2021 with slogans on apparel such as “this is what a tradesperson looks like” and “this is what an apprentice looks like.”

Evidently, there is no “right” way for a skilled tradesperson to look. Diversity within these fields is necessary for a strong and robust workforce and it is only when all feel encouraged to enter these fields that we can grow as a province and as a country.

To read the full interview, visit yourcareer guide.ca

For more information on all the programs that Skills Ontario leads, visit skillsontario.com

Manager: Julia Colavecchia Strategic Account Director: Jessica Golyatov Country Manager: Nina Theodorlis Content & Production Manager: Raymond Fan Designer: Giuliana Bandiera

The Women in Trades campaign will serve to create a conversation on the importance of promoting women in this industry.

began in 1989. Skills Ontario opened its doors in Barrie, Ontario with a mission to promote skilled trades and technologies to youth. Since then, Skills Ontario has grown to become a well-known charity that reaches millions of Ontarians annually. But stigmas surrounding the skilled trades and technologies didn’t make this easy.

Ian Howcroft

CEO, Skills

Ontario

Lindsay Chester Young Women's Intiaitives Program Manager, Skills Ontario

There is strength in diversity, and when we make young women feel inspired and empowered, it is a win for everyone.

How Women Can Spark Change in the Welding Industry

Skilled tradespeople have long been the backbone of Canada’s economy, but one of the main challenges facing the sector is the underrepresentation of women. There isn’t enough awareness around apprenticeships and the types of careers that are available. The CWB Welding Foundation is working to change that. The CWB Welding Foundation develops and supports educational programming, capital, equipment, consumables, and protective equipment that create and upgrade quality learning environments in school technology programs. The Foundation and its donors and co-investors also collaborate to provide educator training, fund student and educator awards, and support applied research in welding and technology.

An industry ripe for change

According to a 2021 RBC Powering Up thought leadership report, Canada will face a shortage of at least 10,000 trade workers in the next five years, with the most severe shortages among trades critical to the coming infrastructure

boom, such as industrial mechanics and welders. However, employers are realizing that the shortage of skilled workers can be filled with the right training and a change in attitude towards welcoming women into the trade.

The perception that women are incapable of performing the physical aspects of the job couldn’t be further from the truth, according to Susan Crowley. “Women tend to be naturally equipped for the spatial relations and fine motor skills necessary in welding.”

Plus, it takes more than just physical ability to perform the job well. Many women currently employed in the trades, specifically in the welding sector, are not only working as welders but are taking on various leadership roles within their organizations.

Part of the mandate of the CWB Welding Foundation is to help women access the opportunities that exist in welding and related trades. The goal is to increase the number of women in welding to at least 6 percent by the year 2030.

The Foundation’s Women of Steel (WOS) initiative aims to support women in welding through foundational training and mentorship. The WOS Forging New Opportunities: Introduction to Welding Program is a 30-hour course funded in part by the Government of Canada. As of March 2022, the CWB Welding Foundation will have held 18 sessions across Canada, with over 200 participants.

The Foundation recently resumed in-person programming after a brief suspension due to COVID-19.

Looking ahead, CWB Welding Foundation is planning to implement longer courses to help women explore both traditional and new options for careers in the trade.

Forging new networking and mentorship opportunities

Beyond the introductory training programs, the CWB Welding Foundation’s #WomenOfSteel network allows women welders to connect and share their journeys and encourages other women to explore careers in welding. This helps to raise awareness of the opportunities available to women in welding.

#WomenOfSteel is made up of more than 85 ambassadors and growing. The Foundation’s hope is that by connecting women with mentors in the industry, they will be inspired to follow a similar path.

A lucrative career path

Welding is among the highest-paying jobs in the skilled trades. Typically, those with entry-level jobs in welding have comparable salaries to those graduating from a threeor four-year bachelor’s degree in the arts or social sciences.

Canadian welding standards are also highly valued internationally, opening up the opportunity to work abroad. “The CWB Group has operations in more than 45 countries, with large infrastructure projects and corporate welding jobs available all over the world,” adds Crowley. “It’s a great opportunity for young people.”

Careers in Trades and Technology? Consider Inclusive Top Institute

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) is a polytechnic institute that offers top-of-the-line techbased training in trades.

SAIT proudly provides students and apprentices with current industrystandard curriculum in exceptional facilities. Their programs integrate in-class learning with practical, hands-on experience, giving their graduates a competitive edge. They have more than 30 trades programs adhering to the Alberta Industry Training guidelines, including electrical motor system technicians, carpentry, ironwork, welding, aircraft structures technician, auto body, and more.

Plus, SAIT boasts various flexible learning pathways to support career growth. Their programs are available to anyone — to current apprentices who have their employer’s support, and to students who don’t yet have employment in a trade. SAIT has a superb pre-apprentice program to support these students through their education and employment search.

Most importantly, the school is dedicated to improving diversity in the trades by providing support for students who are female or from equity-seeking groups.

A welcoming environment

SAIT understands the evolution of trades, the importance of equity and diversity, and the vital role they play in shaping the future of these industries. “A diverse workforce, in any area, is more dynamic and prosperous,” says Reva Bond Ramsden, Dean of SAIT’s School of Construction. “It can’t just be all men or all women. It’s about bringing everyone together to collaborate, offer different perspectives, and make the workforce better.”

Recognizing the value in diversity, SAIT strives to provide students and apprentices with an inclusive environment. Their Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy was created

The

Uplifting tradeswomen

Launched in 2015, WITT is focused on increasing the number of females in trades and technology programs. It offers its members the resources, training, and tools required to accomplish their goals, and it’s made up of apprentices, students, teachers, and industry professionals.

WITT provides mentorship programs in a one-on-one or group style and trains the mentors themselves. “A lot of our mentors are male. They’re coming to the table eager to participate and help diversify the workforce,” Reva adds. “They want to support their female colleagues.” WITT also strives to collaborate with other like-minded organizations.

SAIT wants to offer technology and skillsfocused learning to anybody who’d like to learn a trade. “We pride ourselves on having

hands-on learning that tests a student’s competency and skill,” says Reva. “That’s why we assign assessments to see if they can apply what they’ve learned. It’s less about acing a written test and more about being able to succeed on a job site.”

Graduate with experience

With thousands of industry partners and various scholarship opportunities, SAIT is committed to equipping their trades students and apprentices with ample support and professional training. “Once you get your foot in the door, look for a mentor you can learn from,” expresses Reva. “There’s lots of integration between trades. You will find your niche. Once you do, the opportunities are endless.”

For women interested in exploring a journey in welding, the Foundation is publishing new locations of its WOS program early in the new year. Visit cwbwelding foundation.org to learn more.

to ensure everyone on campus feels welcomed, supported, empowered, and valued.

school even collected research about their own actions and data pertaining to inclusion and diversity. “We are assessing and checking our own work to make sure we’re as inclusive as possible, and to better turn strategy into action,” Reva explains. They’re developing network connections and systems to support this — one of which is the Women in Trades and Technology Committee (WITT).

Reva Bond Ramsden

Dean, SAIT School of Construction

Susan Crowley Executive Director, CWB Welding Foundation

It can’t just be all men or all women. It’s about bringing everyone together to collaborate, o er di erent perspectives, and make the workforce better.

Katherine Cappellacci

This article was sponsored by CWB Welding Foundation.

CWB Welding Foundation discusses how diversity in the welding industry ensures a brighter future.

Melissa Vekil

Typically, those with entry-level jobs in welding have comparable salaries to those graduating from a three- or fouryear bachelor’s degree in the arts or social sciences.

Breaking Down Barriers to Help Women Thrive in Skilled Trades

From the homes we live in to the electricity that keeps us warm, the work of skilled tradespeople affects every part of our daily lives. Pursuing a career in the skilled trades, like welding, plumbing, or heavy equipment operation, can be a lucrative opportunity that offers apprentices a unique way to earn while they learn.

Unfortunately, women are still significantly underrepresented in the skilled trades, making up only four percent of workers. Women experience complex and compounded barriers to entering the skilled trades. Barriers to entry can include financial barriers for access to education, transportation, or tools. They can also include systemic barriers, such as racism and sexism, or lack of network or connections to help get started.

Even if women overcome these challenges, there are also barriers when they enter the workforce. According to a recent Ontario Labour Market Partnerships research project led by ApprenticeSearch.com, 63 percent of women in the skilled trades reported being told that they don’t belong in the industry and 76 percent reported feeling like they were treated differently because of their gender.

“More women are interested in the skilled trades than popular thinking might suggest,” says Kelly Hoey, Executive Director of the ApprenticeSearch.com. “To retain women in the trades, the workplace culture needs to be inclusive to the needs of those who identify as women. Women are looking for an environ-

ment where they feel safe, supported, and secure to do their jobs.”

ApprenticeSearch.com is helping address and remove the barriers to apprenticeship by helping thousands of candidates find jobs. The organization intentionally connects skilled trades employers and job seekers and refers applicants and employers to the services and supports they need.

One focus area for ApprenticeSearch.com is helping job seekers prepare for employment. The team reviews resumes and cover letters and provides valuable feedback. The team provides invitations to attend job search webinars and employability skills training courses, and offers individual and group career counselling and coaching sessions. These mentorship opportunities and events also help people build their network.

Breaking down barriers for underrepresented groups

Out of nearly 20,000 applicants on ApprenticeSearch.com, only 11 percent self-identify as women. The goal is to raise that percentage to 15 percent by the year 2030. The organization has a number of programs designed specifically for underrepresented job seekers who are looking to pursue a career in the skilled trades.

Avenues to Apprenticeship is an 18-week program for BIPOC youth. Participants explore career opportunities and engage in job-readiness training and health and safety

training. They also receive financial support (such as a living allowance, grocery assistance, or money for work clothes and tools), along with a paid skilled trades job placement to gain experience that will support finding an apprenticeship.

63 percent of women in the skilled trades reported being told that they don’t belong in the industry and 76 percent reported feeling like they were treated di erently because of their gender.

The HIEC recently launched a new monthly Women in Skilled Trades Peer Mentorship series. The monthly virtual event is open to women at any point in their skilled trades journey, to meet and network with other women.

“Apprenticeship is the original form of mentorship,” says Hoey. “Through our research, we found that women are seeking support from those with similar or shared experiences — which is not often found on the jobsite. These mentorship sessions are a really powerful way for women to connect with other women in the trades.”

Hoey says that funding from the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario has been critical to the important work being done by ApprenticeSearch.com. “The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in high levels of demand for skilled trade services, and we’ve been fortunate for the support from our partners to help meet this demand,” she says.

Talent Fits Here: How a New Initiative Is Helping Break Barriers in Construction

The construction sector may not be top of mind for the average Canadian, but when it comes to the health of Canada’s economy and infrastructure, it couldn’t be more crucial. Workers in construction — ranging from contractors and project managers to data researchers and scientists — help build, maintain, and improve the infrastructure that underpins Canadian life and industry. Over 1.4 million Canadians work in construction, and the sector represents about 7.5 percent of the country’s GDP. But due to worker shortages, the field is facing challenges that threaten its future.

were boomers,” says Van Buren. That could spell serious consequences for the critical infrastructure Canadians rely on.

Talent Fits Here highlights diversity in construction Compounding the worker shortage is a lack of diversity — the field is still highly male-dominated. “The CCA conducted a business case for diversity, and it very clearly shows that when you have a more diverse workforce, the firm is more successful,” says Van Buren. “We started the Talent Fits Here campaign to break people’s perceptions of what they think construction is.” The initiative showcases the unique career paths of a range of individuals within the sector, challenging traditional narratives around what a construction worker looks like.

Encouraging inclusivity in the sector — besides benefiting individuals who may not otherwise feel encouraged to apply, including women and other underrepresented groups — helps foster innovation, increase employee productivity, reduce turnover, and encourage a positive safety culture. “In a respectful workplace, safety is improved because people feel more inclined to speak up,” says Van Buren.

“Whether in more traditional aspects of construction or newer paths, like sustainability and data science, we want to highlight a link to purpose,” says Van Buren. “Take the recent environmental disasters in British Columbia. Roadbuilders are out there helping their communities and making a real difference. People also take enormous pride in helping build something, like a bridge or community centre. Working in construction means you get to see a tangible outcome to the work you’ve done.”

A labour shortage looms large over the construction sector

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA), helmed by Mary Van Buren, represents 20,000 members. “CCA’s role is to advance best practices in the industry and to advocate for a resilient sector so that together, we can build a better Canada,” says Van Buren. “The association is where the industry can come together, talk through issues, and speak as one voice to the federal government.”

Among the most crucial issues facing the CCA — and by extension, every Canadian who relies on the work of its members — is an impending labour shortage. “One of the trends we’re seeing, which is true for many sectors, is that the baby boomers are retiring, and there aren’t as many new entrants as there

There’s more to construction than meets the eye

“Beyond the demographic challenge, we’re seeing that construction isn’t necessarily a career of choice,” says Van Buren. To challenge that perception, Van Buren hopes the initiative will help showcase the wide variety of careers available in the field.

“I would encourage people to look beyond the surface. There’s not just one set of skills or requirements, so don’t count yourself out until you’ve really considered it.” From project managers, who work both on-site and in the office, to construction-focused researchers, data scientists, engineers, and even lawyers, there’s an enormous range of career possibilities.

Mediaplanet spoke with Kelly Hoey, Executive Director of the ApprenticeSearch.com, to discuss how the non-profit is helping to address and remove the barriers to apprenticeship for people across Ontario.

Melissa Vekil Kelly Hoey Executive Director, ApprenticeSearch.

This article was sponsored by Halton Industry Education Council.

Veronica Stephenson

Mary Van Buren President, Canadian Construction Association

Women in Renewable Energy: A Conversation with Industry Leaders

Women in Renewable Energy discuss the importance of innovation, diversity, and providing resources to advance the renewable energy sector.

What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing a career in the renewable energy sector?

Connect with others and also focus on the skills you can bring to any organization in renewable energy, rather than focusing on a particular energy form or technology area within the sector. The skills you’ve developed (or are developing) are applicable to more than one kind of clean energy solution alone.

What has WiRE been doing to ensure the advancement of the renewable energy industry?

WiRE has been an advocate for sustainable energy in general and contributes to the industry’s advancement by bringing people of all kinds of backgrounds, areas of work, and skills to support it.

How important do you think diversity is in this industry?

Diversity is massively important in the renewable energy sector and in the broader environmental sector. We continue to see instances of energy poverty affecting marginalized groups and energy policies that only take into account the perspective of a few privileged people in Canada and around the world. If we want to have a clean energy future, we have to have diverse perspectives and ways of thinking at the table, across all aspects of the industry.

What impact has the renewable energy sector had on Canada’s economy?

It has had a positive impact on the Canadian economy, particularly in terms of job creation and innovation. The renewables industry tends to produce long-term, well-paid jobs all across Canada and to foster innovation beyond just the energy sector.

Proud LiUNA Sister Building Canada in Partnership

Mediaplanet spoke with proud LiUNA Sister and general labourer for Aecon, Nikole Robinson, to discuss her experience with the new Women in Trades

LiUNA launched in partnership with Aecon.

many women were having trouble finding, while familiarizing them with tools and the construction world.

After being a stay-at-home mom for almost five years, I wanted to be out in the world, creating. I’ve always loved the outdoors. I’m from the small town of Gooderham in Haliburton County. If you wanted to have fun, make money, or live life there, you had to embrace the outdoors.

I’ve always known that I wanted to work outdoors and with my hands, but there was something holding me back. It was a “man’s world,” and it was very intimidating. I was able to take part in lawn maintenance, but it seems that’s all I could find at the time.

My husband, however, was able to land a job in sewer and water maintenance through LiUNA Local 183. When I was ready to begin my search of employment, he mentioned the extensive list of programs LiUNA offered and I immediately went to their website and found a landscaping program. I applied, and soon enough I was driving to the LiUNA Training Centre!

As I was attending the Landscaping course, one day I arrived and noticed all these unfamiliar faces: women! There were about 12 women getting out of their vehicles with tool belts, hammers, and hard hats in hand. They all started to greet each other like they’d known each other for years. It was a sisterhood, a union family.

On my lunch break, I decided to investigate. As I approached the women, they all smiled and invited me to join their conversation. Finally, I asked the question that would change my life, “What program are you all here for?” They began to tell me about Aecon partnering with LiUNA to deliver the Women in Trades program.

The disappointment I felt from not being part of this soon vanished. Ally Boutin of Aecon informed me that Aecon was going hire a new wave of trainees for this specific program in a couple of months. I also found out that you didn’t need to have any experience. They were willing to take on women who had never even held a hammer before. The program was for building the confidence that

Absolutely intrigued, I went home that evening, did some research, and applied right away. Within a couple weeks I received a phone call, and the process began.

What did the program entail? What was the most interesting part?

The Construction Craft Worker (CCW) program that I was accepted into had numerous aspects to it. We were taught everything from reading a tape measure to trenching with machines. With it having such a broad spectrum, we were able to take on so many aspects of the industry.

When we first started, our instructor Sean Stewart sat in front of all the women and gave us a little encouragement. That stuck with me. He said, “Right now all you ladies are like a wave. Some have no experience, some have a little, and some have more. In this program you’ll all find something you struggle with, but in the end, you’ll all leave here on the same level. I’ll make sure of it.”

We started with safety training and math. We earned training and certification in Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHIMIS), Working at Heights, Traffic Control, and so much more. Then we were ready to start working with our hands.

It might sound funny, but we began with hammering nails, then using the skill saw. Remember, some of these women had never even held a tool. Within a few days, though, you better believe we were ready for the projects to begin.

Form building, concrete stairs, platforms, and framing began. Everyone helped each other. Everyone was learning how to work as a team. Sean never shied away from any questions we had, even if they seemed ridiculous.

We ended CCW with machinery. After we did the mini excavator and skid steer training, we started playing with the big toys. Many who were nervous when we began were now hopping in the machines willingly each day. We couldn’t get enough!

When you’re in the program, you wonder

why they structure it in certain ways, but when you’re out in the field, it all comes together. Every little thing we did has come up at least once. Even though I don’t have much experience in some things, I’m at least familiar now.

What was the biggest takeaway that you walked away with?

Confidence! I was one of the women who were scared of the machines, had trouble with math, and had never used a skill saw. We were taught that you can achieve anything if you go in with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and some confidence. John Gaulley, another instructor, once told me, “Don’t say no because you’re scared. Explain that you’re willing to take on the task. You may not have all the experience, but you’re willing to get your hands dirty and try.” I took this to the field and now I see what he was talking about.

There have been many times when I’ve been asked to complete a task that I’m unfamiliar with. I always explain that I’ve never done this before, or that I have little experience, but that I’m willing to try. I find with this approach, people become softer and open to teach you. It’s better to be honest and willing than to never try, or to try and make a huge mistake because you didn’t inform them of your lack of knowledge.

One more thing I took away from this is that women belong in the trades, point blank.

What would you like to tell other students who might be interested in the program?

If you want to start somewhere, start with LiUNA. Their innovative and experienced training will teach you everything from the beginning and help you excel in your career in the trades.

To learn more, visit womeninrenewable energy.ca

This article was made possible with support from WiRE

To learn about the LiUNA family visit liuna.ca This article was sponsored by LiUNA.

How did you hear about the Women in Trades program and what inspired you to seek a career in the trades?

Nikole K Robinson LiUNA Member General Labourer for Aecon

Program that

Brittany Bright Advisory Committee Member, WiRE

Kate Power Social Media Lead, WiRE

Jasmine Lyn Program Manager, WiRE International

PHOTO COURTESY OF LiUNA

Female and Job Searching? Achieve a Prosperous Skilled Trades Career

On International Women’s Day in 2018, the Government of British Colombia allocated funding to two projects supporting women in skilled trades — one of which led to the inception of the B.C. Centre for Women in the Trades (BCCWITT).1

Focused on assisting and advancing women in skilled trades, BCCWITT is a partnership lead by labour and industry representatives and tradeswomen. Specializing in career development, they provide programming to support women entering the trades sector every step of the way — via training opportunities, funding, childcare, transportation, and more.

Uplifting women is more important than ever, as they only represent four percent of the skilled trades workforce in B.C. 2 In a sector that’s destined to face massive worker shortages, adjusting workplace culture, habits, and outlooks to suit the other 50 percent of the Canadian population is paramount for this industry’s survival. 3

A social shift Women in the field often struggle to overcome longstanding prejudices perpetuated by a predominantly male workforce. A toxic workplace environment may inhibit women from accessing career advancement opportunities, thus lowering retention rates. Plus, workplaces may lack standard female washrooms or properly

fitted personal protective equipment.

Beyond ensuring a prosperous future, BCCWITT strives to uplift equity-seeking groups and promote diversity. Aside from helping women and marginalized peoples enter trade fields, they’re also committed to making these workplace environments more inclusive.

“Our Be More Than a Bystander program is based on the belief that men need to be standing up for women,” explains Karen Dearlove, BCCWITT’s Executive Director. This successful program helps employers adjust their business practices to suit women, such as their hiring processes and policy placements.

“We aim to teach men in leadership positions about how to be better allies — to identify and remedy the impediments women face under their supervision.”

Bringing tradeswomen together

A Red Seal Electrician, Becky Lupton joined the BCCWITT Governance Committee to help women in trades overcome barriers. “I wanted to see other women enter the trade. They’re out there, but they need support.”

That’s why BCCWITT has a Tradeswoman Network, where women in trades can connect and assist one another. Their Regional Representative Program helps tradeswomen develop leadership and mentoring skills, with the goal of increasing diversity.

Becky knows firsthand that women may not realize they can build a successful career in skilled trades. “If you can’t see others like you doing it, it’s difficult to believe you can,” she says. “There are jobs in skilled trades you could love, get well paid for, and build a satisfying career through.”

BCCWITT encourages businesses to develop policies that support women. “Creating safe workplaces goes beyond occupational health and safety — it’s having the correct policies in place,” Karen explains.

Increasing inclusivity

From helping women enter the workforce to uplifting those already in the field, BCCWITT is dedicated to revitalizing the skilled trades arena. Plus, they’re breaking barriers by training company leaders and male coworkers to realize, address, and solve issues hindering the women in their field.

“Creating respectful, safe, healthy workplaces doesn’t just help women; it helps everybody,” Karen says.

Women Are Leading the Way in the Skilled Construction Trades

It’s always a daunting question, "What do I do now?" For women graduating from high school or considering a career change, the skilled trades can take you everywhere — outside the cubicle, across the country, or into your own business. The skilled trades are among the fastest growing fields in Canada, offering plenty of room to advance and make a good salary. Take it from women who’ve chosen this career path. There are more opportunities than ever for women to succeed and lead in the skilled trades.

Women are proud to work in the skilled trades Member companies of the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA) employ thousands of skilled trades workers across Canada who build everything from major energy and resource projects to roads and bridges. A growing number of their skilled workers are women. Although they come from different backgrounds and provinces, they all have something in common — they’re extremely proud of what they do.

“She always emphasized how getting in the trades would be an essential under your belt and something you could be proud of,” says Brouwer. “I remember that every day. I think a lot of women would enjoy construction. It makes you feel that you can stand with the rest of them.”

Miranda Van Rooyen started as a summer student at Van Rooyen Earthmoving Ltd. in Woodstock, Ontario. Her dad was a foreman at the company, and encouraged her to “give it a try.” Now into her ninth season in construction, she’s earned her way from driving a packer and rock truck, to becoming the company’s fi rst female bulldozer operator.

“It took me a long time to admit to myself that I actually like it,” says the 24-year-old, who graduated from university with a degree in psychology, and worked in the mental

health industry, before realizing how much she missed construction, and working outdoors. “That’s when I decided to stick with it,” says Van Rooyen, who hopped on a bulldozer for the first-time a year ago. “It was a new challenge; it felt more hands-on, and I discovered I like working with my hands.”

The skilled trades offer skills for life Leah Powell grew up outside Williams Lake, British Columbia. She always enjoyed math, working with her hands, and the thought of graduating without school debt. Powell completed an apprenticeship and worked as a journeyman electrician before working her way up to Assistant Estimating Manager at PTW Energy Services Ltd., where she reviews the scope of work, equipment, labour, and material costs for large-scale projects. As Powell sees it, women who are good with tools, will always be able to fix a flat tire or things around the house. She says the skilled trades offer practical life skills that give women a sense of empowerment.

(PCA) launched the “Opportunity Knocks” campaign to encourage more women, youth, and those seeking a ‘second career’ to consider a career in construction. Learn more at: opportunityknocks.ca

Karen Dearlove Executive Director, BCCWITT

Creating respectful, safe, healthy workplaces doesn’t just help women; it helps everybody.

Adriana Brouwer, a 21-year-old first term plumbing apprentice, works at JMR Electric Ltd., in Exeter, Ontario. She was encouraged by a friend’s grandmother who believed the skilled trades have a lot to offer women.

Progressive Contractors Association of Canada

The Progressive Contractors Association of Canada

Katherine Cappellacci

This article was sponsored by B.C. Centre for Women in the Trades.

This article was sponsored by PCA