As more women enter the skilled trades, NC alumna Olivia VanDenBelt is contributing to a growing presence of women in construction through her work in carpentry, reflecting the diverse paths women are forging in traditionally male-dominated industries.
A 2020 graduate of NC’s Carpentry & Renovation Technician program, VanDenBelt says her passion for working with her hands started long before she stepped into an NC classroom.
Growing up on a farm, she was regularly involved in hands-on tasks and quickly discovered she thrived in active, practical environments.
“I grew up on a farm, so I’ve always been exposed to working with my hands and helping my Dad with various tasks around the farm,” she said. “I also grew up playing a lot of sports and was a very active kid, and I knew from a pretty young age that I wanted a job where I was on my feet and active.”
VanDenBelt speaking to a group of NC students at the Women in Construction panel on April 13. VanDenBelt spoke about her involvement with Women on Site, a network that connects women working across trades, STEM and agriculture.
A high school construction class first sparked her interest in the field, helping to shape her future career path.
“There was a window in our computer lab that looked into the construction shop,” she said. “Every morning when I was supposed to be focusing on my computer, I found myself staring through the window to see what students in the construction shop were building.”
That curiosity led her to take construction classes throughout high school before enrolling at NC, where she says hands-on learning and co-op experience helped lay the foundation for her career.
“Taking the Carpentry & Renovation Technician program at Niagara College provided me with a great base knowledge for a variety of construction tasks,” she said. “Having a co-op as part of the program was also very beneficial to starting my career in the trades… Co-op really helped me get my foot in the door and start my carpentry career.”
That experience quickly translated into employment with DRC Renovations in London, Ontario. Following her co-op placement with Clay Design, Construction & Cabinetry (formally Millennium Construction), VanDenBelt was hired full-time, beginning her apprenticeship in 403A General Carpentry. She completed her Red Seal certification in December 2024 and has since been promoted to lead carpenter.
Alongside her work on the job site, she is also actively involved in supporting other women in the trades. She serves as the London, Ontario chapter host for Women on Site, a network that connects women working across trades, STEM and agriculture, and also mentors apprentices through the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum.
While she describes her experience in the industry as largely positive, she acknowledges there are still challenges for women working in construction.
“As the only female on job sites, it can sometimes feel isolating, but my co-workers have been very supportive of me and are always willing to help me out,” she said.
She also notes that some challenges have helped her develop stronger problem-solving skills on the job.
“I’m a lot smaller than some of my co-workers, and I can’t lift things the same way they do,” she said. “I have to think about things beforehand, and sometimes figure out another way of lifting or doing something. By taking that extra second to think things through, I’m working more ergonomically, which is very important in the long run.”
Looking ahead, VanDenBelt believes continued progress in the industry depends on open conversations and meaningful change around workplace supports.
“There’s been a big push for more and better washroom facilities for women on job sites and having smaller sized personal protective equipment available,” she said. “I think continuing these discussions about the barriers women face is incredibly important.”
She adds that employers also play a key role in creating more inclusive environments through practical supports such as flexible work arrangements, maternity planning, and improved access to properly fitting equipment.
For current and future students considering a career in the trades, her advice is this: stay curious, ask questions and take advantage of every opportunity.
“Don’t be afraid to do what you need to get the knowledge and experience that you want,” she said. “Ask lots of questions, be open to learning and trying new things… and don’t be afraid to speak up for what you need.”
