Skills Council of Canada

Women in Trades

This one-day event will showcase success stories, address challenges, and provide hands-on experience in various trades. Meet inspiring women who have paved their way in these fields, participate in interactive sessions, and learn about apprenticeship opportunities. Don't miss this chance to connect, learn, and take the first step towards a rewarding career in trades. Empower your future with skills that build the world.

Skill-Building Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops led by female trades professionals. These sessions will cover a variety of trades and focus on skill development, innovation, and leadership within the trades.
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Career Development Panels: Engage with panels discussing critical topics such as navigating the trades as a woman, finding mentorship, advocating for oneself in the workplace, and strategies for career advancement.
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Networking Luncheon: Connect with fellow attendees, industry leaders, and potential mentors over lunch. This is a great opportunity to build your network, share experiences, and find support among women in the trades.
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Resource Expo: Explore a comprehensive expo featuring educational institutions, scholarship opportunities, women-focused trade organizations, and employers committed to supporting diversity and inclusion in the trades.

Event Agenda

8:30 - 9:20 AM - Arrival and Welcome

Participants arrive and register. A time for networking and settling in before the event officially begins.

9:30 - 10:30 AM - Session 1: Carpentry

Introduction to carpentry tools, safety procedures, and hands-on activity.

10:40-11:40AM - Session 2: Electrical

Basics of electrical work, safety practices, and a simple circuit project.

11:50-12:20PM - Lunch

A 30-minute break for lunch. Lunch will be provided. Please see the registration form to indicate dietary restrictions.

12:30-1:30PM - Session 3: Plumbing

Overview of plumbing systems, tools, and a hands-on activity.

1:40-2:40PM - Info Session with Sheridan College

Panel discussion with successful women in trades, Q&A session, and information on apprenticeship opportunities. Closing remarks

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Event Activities

Participants will be engaged in both theory and hands on experiences designed to provide an interactive day of fun!

Heart pipe

Materials that will be used

½” 90degree fitting x6
½”pipe (length TBD)
Flux
Leadfree solder
Torch
Pipe and tube cutter
Measuring tape

Students will learn the basic concepts of plumbing, measuring and cutting, assembly and using a torch and soldering for a permanent fit.

Each student will receive 6 elbow fittings, one length of pipe, tools will be shared between 2-3 students measuring tape, marker, pipe cutting tools and a blueprint.
Each student will learn how to read a blueprint, measure the pipe, and cut to the correct length. Dry fit the pipe and then finish the fit with a torch / soldering.

Buzz Wand Game

Materials that will be used

9V battery
9V battery connector
Led Light
12”wire (10 gauge)
6” wire (18 gauge)
Wood board
Electrical tape
Self-taping screw/Power drill
Tin strapping

Students will learn the basic of building a circuit, attaching wires and power sources and understanding the different voltages in everyday items and their house.

Each student will receive wooden board, two different sizes of copper wire, 2 LED light bulbs, 9V battery and 9V battery connection, tools will be shared between 2-3 students' electrical tape, wire cutters, power drill, self-taping screws and schematic .
Each student will bend the larger gauge wire into a complicated shape, create a circuit connecting the correct coloured wire to the battery, lights, wand and maze. Test out their puzzle to make sure it works

Buzz Wand Game

Materials that will be used

½” wooden dowel
½” drill bit
Holding fixture
Blueprint
Sandpaper

Students will learn how to read blueprints, how to cut material with a hand saw, use hand tools vs larger machinery like the drill press and chop saw.

Each student will be given a 12” long ½” diameter wooden dowel, they will need to cut the dowel into 6 pieces equalling 2” long. Use the Drill jigs provided to set up the parts and drill the correct groves into the puzzle pieces. Smooth out the parts after cutting and learn to assemble their 3D puzzle.

Try Our Skilled Trades - FAQs

Everything you need to know about the program.

What is the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

The 'Try Our Skilled Trades' program is an initiative designed to introduce participants to the wide range of opportunities available in skilled trades. Focusing on practical, hands-on experiences, it aims to demystify trades careers and encourage more women to consider them as viable and fulfilling career options.

Who is eligible to participate in the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

Participants can explore a variety of trades, including but not limited to carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), welding, Auto Service and more. Each event may offer different trade options based on availability and participant interest. Please review each event to determine which trade you would be interested in exploring. Each event will typically focus on 3 trades.

Do participants need any prior experience in trades to join the program?

No, participants do not need any prior experience. The program is designed to be an introductory experience, offering a supportive environment to learn and explore different trades.

How long is the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

Program durations are typically structured as short, immersive experiences typically 1hr to 1.5hrs, allowing participants to get a tangible sense of each trade.

Is there a cost to participate in the program?

Most events under the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program are free to eligible participants. This initiative is part of Skills Council of Canada's commitment to making skills development accessible to all and funding is supported thanks to the Government of Ontario.

What will participants gain from attending the program?

Participants will gain hands-on experience, insights into various trades, and the opportunity to connect with professionals in the field. Additionally, the program aims to inspire confidence in pursuing trades as a career path.

Are there any support services available for participants after completing the program?

Yes, participants have access to career support mentors, further educational resources, and can be connected with employment opportunities through Skills Council of Canada's extensive network.

How can participants register for the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

Interested individuals can register through the Skills Council of Canada website or contact our program coordinators directly for more information on upcoming events and availability.

Where are 'Try Our Skilled Trades' events held?

Events are held in Brampton Ontario, utilizing our 17 trade facility at Judith Nyman Secondary School. Locations and dates are periodically updated on our website to reflect the latest schedule.

Women in Trades

Event Agenda

Event Date:

Event Summary

Skilled Trades to Explore:

Panel discussions

Partners Supporting the Event

Event Activities

Heart pipe

Buzz Wand Game

Buzz Wand Game

Try Our Skilled Trades - FAQs