Funding Support Received from Women and Gender Equality Canada

(Toronto, ON – May 31, 2021)  Today, Women and Gender Equality Canada announced funding for a project developed by the Canadian Coalition of Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology (CCWESTT) for the advancement of women in skilled trades and apprenticeship. CCWESTT will receive $481,852 to support the development and implementation of a code of practice for respectful trades workplaces.

 

Welcoming Workplaces for Women in Trades and Apprenticeship: A Code of Practice will outline the strategies necessary for creating and sustaining a workplace culture that is inclusive of women. Specifically, the Code of Practice provides a framework for employers to assess policies, practices and behaviours to better recruit and retain women in skilled trades.  The Code of Practice is currently in its pilot and revision phase of development.  The final code will launch in fall 2021.

“We know that a critical factor limiting the participation, retention and advancement of women in trades is the culture of the workplace.  As the future of trades continues to face a shortage of skilled workers, we at CCWESTT see this as an opportunity to help break down barriers and support workplaces that better welcome and support women,” says Bonnie Douglas, CCWESTT Project Coordinator. “We are grateful to Women and Gender Equality Canada for their support in helping us achieve our goals towards making lasting change for women and employers.”

 

Trades employers interested in more information, and women in trades positions interested in getting involved are encouraged to reach out to Bonnie Douglas at bonnie.douglas@ccwestt.org.

 

About CCWESTT

The Canadian Coalition of Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology (CCWESTT) is a leader for and a voice of a national community for women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology (SETT). They promote girls and women studying and working in these fields, and celebrate the contributions of women in all spheres of SETT. As a national organization made up of individuals, groups, institutions and industries, CCWESTT builds alliances and partnerships which support and celebrate a diverse SETT workforce. From education, to retention and leadership, their goal is to empower and support women who study and work in these fields through conferences, professional development opportunities, building networks and mentorship relationships, and being a voice for women in SETT in Canada.