Although we have been talking about women in trades for decades the actual number of women working in the field has barely changed. Discrimination and poor workplace culture have long been barriers for women entering these careers

Mentoring and Networking

Due to the small number of women in trades, women rarely get an opportunity to meet each other. Creating a network of supportive women is essential to increase the retention and advancement of women in trades. In addition to developing a database, numerous social and educational events will be held throughout the province.

Shifting the Culture

BCCWITT is working with Ending Violence Association of  BC and the BC Lions to customize the Be More Than a Bystander program for the skilled trades industry and deliver it to male representatives from industry, labour and the trades. The Be More Than A Bystander program provides training to men on how to stand up and speak out against bullying, harassment, and violence.  Workplace violence is a continuum that includes threatening behaviour, verbal or written threats, harassment, verbal abuse and physical attacks and this program will help to create more respectful workplaces within construction and the trades.

Building Organizational Capacity

BCCWITT supports equitable recruitment, training and advancement practices to help women be successful in trades careers. Effective implementation of policies, practices and training that provide a safe and healthy environment for women will contribute to the organizational capacity to eliminate discrimination, harassment and bullying.