How do we attract women to the trades?
That was the key question on the minds of employees from the Ontario Power Generation (OPG) at the OPG Women in Trades event on October 19.
Niagara College was invited to the table to discuss tangible actions and opportunities to partner with the OPG to better support women.
“Promoting women in trades is not just about equality; it’s about recognizing that diversity brings balance to our teams,” said Nick Pender, Vice President of Niagara Operations, OPG. ” In our generating stations, fostering a modern and progressive workplace not only normalizes gender inclusion but also cultivates a high-performing environment by mitigating groupthink and embracing a spectrum of perspectives.”
The NC team – Lisa Caruso, Coordinator/Professor, Mechanical Techniques – General Machinist, Julie Stuart, Manager, Apprenticeship, and Rebecca Nicholls, Associate Dean, School of Access Studies, Workforce Development & Community Partnerships – welcomed the opportunity to showcase how the College is supporting access to and diversity within the skilled trades.
Caruso spoke about her own journey and the obstacles she faced to become a tradesperson, as well as historical events and cultural shifts that have influenced more gender diversity in the field.
Caruso stressed that while negative stereotypes still exist and create barriers for women and girls, it takes continuous effort to change perceptions and increase representation within the trades.
Stuart’s presentation also covered the pathway to Apprenticeship, the differences between Apprenticeship and Pre-apprenticeship, and certificate programs.
Nicholls covered NC’s resources to support the OPG, including Community Employment Services, Academic Upgrading, and English as a Second Language Training.
“The group was enthusiastic, engaged in the presentation, and receptive to ideas on how we could draw women to the trades,” said Nicholls. “Lisa’s personal experience was a hit!”
The event was also a forum for the OPG to hear how they can join the College’s efforts, such as facilitating apprenticeships.
“Hearing back from some of the folks we presented to, the guest speaking, tour opportunities and mentorship programs were identified as immediate wins and easily actionable on the OPG side,” said Nicholls, who says that conversations about next steps with the OPG are in the works.
The NC team gave OPG employees some key actions to support women in trades, including:
- Guest Speaking to female students in a class setting, panel event or informal gathering
- Mentoring female students along their journey to employment
- Provide onsite tours to highlight opportunities for women at the OPG
- Hire NC pre-apprentices for their 8-to-12-week placement
- Sponsor an award for female apprentices or graduates who pursue an apprenticeship
They also discussed partnership opportunities with NC to deliver necessary, custom training to apprentices or staff.
Nicholls says that the group of OPG employees from across the province asked many good questions, including how we could better support Indigenous women interested in trades pathways.
“We hope this will be a future NC program in collaboration with OPG and support from funders and the community,” said Nicholls.
