Breaking Ground in Workforce Diversity

By Natalie Bruckner

What began as a vision for inclusivity within Local 56 in Nova Scotia, Canada, has blossomed into a groundbreaking initiative reshaping career opportunities and community engagement across Cape Breton Island. Sheet Metal Workers and Roofers Local 56 isn’t just expanding its membership. It’s crafting a blueprint for unionized work that prioritizes diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment. Established in 1966, Local 56 represents 140 dedicated tradespeople today, but its influence stretches far beyond these numbers. The local’s innovative partnerships with the five First Nations communities across Cape Breton Island— We’koqma’q, Wagmatcook, Membertou, Eskasoni, and Potlotek—have transformed career aspirations into tangible opportunities.

This has altered the professional landscape for many. Jack Wall, former business manager/financial secretarytreasurer and now International representative, has been a driving force behind this transformative effort helping to bring together multiple key industry, community, and government leaders.

The seeds of change were planted over a decade ago when Wall set out to provide training for Indigenous community members in trades such as roofing, ventilation, and siding. This initial effort laid the groundwork for broader collaboration, setting the stage for significant advancements that would help redefine the industry’s approach to inclusivity and engagement efforts.

A pivotal moment materialized with generational impact in 2020 when Wall and a team of like-minded industry leaders approached the government with a visionary proposal to ensure equity-deserving representation on every publicly funded job site. “Our relationship with Local 56 opens up opportunities for band members,” says Steve Parsons, CEO of Corporate Services and Economic Development for the Eskasoni First Nations. “This provides them with a chance where they might previously have been reluctant to join.”

This moment for change was a heavy lift but Wall, along with government and Building Trades representatives, established a Community Benefit Agreement. This agreement set a new standard, mandating that 25% of the workforce on upcoming infrastructure projects be apprentices, with 10% drawn from underrepresented groups. “We reached out to Indigenous communities to ensure they had access to training opportunities,” Wall says. This approach not only embraced Indigenous groups but also extended to women, African Canadians, newcomers to Canada, and persons with disabilities, enhancing Local 56’s engagement and commitment to diversity.

Local 56’s inclusivity efforts extend to those with learning difficulties, offering extra guidance and adapting to meet their needs. Wall shares a poignant story: “One gentleman struggled with reading, so for his test, his mother came in to read him the questions. He’s been exemplary ever since.”

The union’s commitment to inclusivity is indeed all-inclusive. Wall’s determination to increase female representation within Local 56 has been particularly impactful. “For a long time, Local 56 had only one female member in over 15 years,” Wall reflects.

Recognizing the need for change, the Local partnered with organizations like Women Unlimited to introduce more women to the trade. This initiative has significantly diversified the local’s membership, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity that aligns with industry trends toward greater diversity.

The local has seen a remarkable increase in diversity, with a significant influx of members from underrepresented groups. “Last year, at the annual holiday meeting, 85 attendees joined other members compared to the usual 30 to 40,” Wall notes proudly. This shift is emblematic of the broader changes within the Local, including a recent sheet metal class with 12 students from equity-deserving groups.

Testimonials bring these initiatives to life. Wall recounts the journey of a young woman who is now Local 56’s first female shop steward. Another powerful story involves a man with a troubled past who asked Wall for a chance to turn his life around. “He had been in trouble with the law, but we saw potential in him,” Wall explains. “With the opportunity and support, he has succeeded in ways he never thought possible.”

This story highlights Local 56’s initiatives and the profound difference in the lives of individual members. “To hear a member say that this opportunity has changed their life is rewarding and often overwhelming. I’m proud of the team at Local 56 and the partners that helped create this success,” Wall shares.

Building and maintaining strong relationships with contractors has been crucial to the local’s success. “Establishing a good relationship with your contractors creates a true partnership and ignites success for everyone involved,” Wall explains. His advocacy for underrepresented individuals with contractors has shown the power of trust and collaboration. Wall recalls working with a contractor who was initially hesitant but ultimately gave a young woman a chance, demonstrating the importance of providing opportunities and support to all.

Looking ahead, Local 56 remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding its reach and impact. “We see the value in the efforts, and we will continue to strive for more success,” Wall says.

As the broader industry looks to replicate Local 56’s success, it’s clear that partnerships and initiatives like these are crucial for driving transformative change.

SMART Director of Special Projects and staff liaison to the SMART BE4ALL Committee Louise Medina captures this essence perfectly. “Real change in any industry happens when we work together and include everyone,” she says. “By tearing down barriers and building connections, we create chances for everyone and shape a future where diversity makes us stronger and more successful.”

However, Jen Squirewell, director of chapter management at SMACNA, says, sustaining this progress requires more than just initiatives. “Inclusivity in the workplace isn’t just an initiative. It’s an imperative for the future and strength of our industry. Diverse perspectives drive innovation, and a respectful workplace ensures every voice is heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to our shared success.” ▪

Natalie is an award-winning writer who has worked in the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, the United States, and Canada. She has more than 23 years experience as a journalist, editor, and brand builder, specializing in construction and transportation. When she’s not writing, you will likely find her snowboarding, mountain biking, or climbing mountains with her rescue dog.