The Carpenters’ Regional Council (CRC) is amplifying its commitment to gender equality within the skilled construction trades by extending the reach of the Office to Advance Women Apprentices (OAWA) into the Prairies region. This initiative, backed by CRC’s investment, aims to enhance inclusivity and diversity within the industry.
“Ensuring careers in the skilled trades are more accessible for women is a priority to help make our industry more inclusive and to address Canada’s labour shortage,” said Jason Rowe, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Carpenters’ Regional Council. “Complementing our initiatives like Sisters in the Brotherhood, our investment in OAWA is another way we are providing leadership to attract and retain more women in the trades.”
The CRC has invested significantly in OAWA Prairies, recognizing the office’s pivotal role in advancing women in the Red Seal skilled construction trades. The organization has standardized OAWA’s framework across multiple regions to ensure the continuity of its vital support services.
“We’re focused on educating women about the incredible career opportunities available to them in the skilled construction trades and creating pathways for them to succeed,” stated Emma Pollard, Project Director for OAWA. “Working in collaboration with our industry partners, we are committed to enhancing a worksite culture that supports women in male-dominated industries.”
OAWA offers services tailored to the unique challenges women face in these industries, including resume building, interview preparation, and networking events. By facilitating connections between tradeswomen and employers, OAWA not only assists individuals in finding employment but also promotes a culture of diversity and inclusion.
Since its inception in Newfoundland and Labrador in 2009, OAWA has expanded across Canada, providing assistance for over 2,000 employment opportunities and supporting more than 4,000 women. However, women remain underrepresented in the skilled construction trades, underscoring the ongoing need for initiatives like OAWA.
The CRC’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce is also reflected in other initiatives such as the Sisters in the Brotherhood Women’s Employment Readiness program. As OAWA continues to expand its reach and impact, supported by the Carpenters’ Regional Council, it aims to make significant strides towards a more inclusive and equitable future in the skilled trades.
