The Newfoundland and Labrador government will spend $3.54 million over three years to create an all-female renovation crew that helps women gain apprenticeship experience in skilled trades.
The program, run by the Office to Advance Women Apprentices, will hire three female journeypersons and 12 apprentices in carpentry, plumbing and electrical work. The crew will focus on providing services to vulnerable populations, including domestic violence survivors, seniors and people with disabilities.
“These initiatives reflect our commitment to building a skilled, inclusive and mobile workforce in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Gerry Byrne, minister of jobs, immigration and growth.
The social enterprise model aims to become financially sustainable by the end of the funding period through revenue from renovations, maintenance subscriptions, merchandise sales and do-it-yourself workshops.
Online registry launches
The province also launched an online registry that allows employers to verify the credentials of journeypersons and apprentices across Canada. Users can search the database using a person’s name and certificate number.
“The launch of the registry will allow employers to confirm the qualifications of tradespeople and support them in getting on the job site quicker,” said Shawn Skinner, training director at Carpenters Millwright College.
The registry joins similar systems in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario. People can opt out by emailing the province with their personal details.
Program details
The women’s apprenticeship program will provide safety training, mentorship and customer service support. The Newfoundland and Labrador Workforce Innovation Centre will help guide the project’s sustainability planning.
Since 2009, the Office to Advance Women Apprentices has supported more than 2,300 tradeswomen and helped over 230 achieve Red Seal certification.
The funding comes through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement under the Research and Innovation program.
