CCDA Issues Statement on Women in Trades: It’s About Ability, Not Gender

RedSeal

 

June 25, 2018

The Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship (CCDA) and its members are celebrating the hard work and dedication of women who successfully work in the skilled trades. In the skilled trades, the majority of which are male-dominated, women have faced unique challenges including gender-biased stereotyping, lack of female mentors and positive role models, and challenges balancing caregiving responsibilities with unsupportive work arrangements and inadequate access to childcare. Not only are these women successfully entering these occupations, they often do so in very small numbers. Women continue to be largely under-represented in the skilled trades.

But, why so few women in the skilled trades?

Gender research suggests that male-dominated occupations are often surrounded by a culture that does not anticipate or respond adequately to the needs of women and diverse groups. This culture can create a barrier for many women wanting to enter the labour market and break through to the careers they really want. Women who start apprenticeships may not complete to certification because of the workplace culture, even with the promise of better wages.

The research also shows that this culture does not reflect the actual beliefs and values held by many men and women. This means that change is possible and change can start with us. Many workplace leaders are implementing sexual harassment and respectful workplace policies. In many work sites, this has improved the environment for all employees. Unfortunately, we are not there yet and women continue to experience inappropriate conduct at work.

Taking action

Employers and labour organizations must continue to play a leadership role to create change. With everyone working together, we will ensure these policies translate into safe, respectful work environments.

It is time to create a new culture that revolves around diversity, passion, artistry and, most importantly, ability, not gender. We must continue to create collaborative cultures and reframe work environments so we are all aware of our biases and support the success of everyone.

The evidence is clear: the best and most effective way to increase the number of women in male-dominated fields is to see women working in them. So, CCDA salutes Canada’s female apprentices and journeypersons for following their dreams and forging a path for other women.

If you are a young girl or woman interested in apprenticeship, look for role models and seek mentors and colleagues who support you in your journey. Be prepared to stand up for your beliefs. Know your strengths and skills, your values, your talents and your passions. We encourage you to pursue your interests and follow your dreams.

What you can do

The CCDA is calling all leaders to action. Get to know what is going on in your workplace and ensure the women working in the skilled trades are given quality work, supported to learn and carry out their tasks successfully, and experience a respectful workplace. We can all do better — for our mothers, daughters, and sisters.

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • Virtual Training for Electricians Available at Many IBEW Canada Training Centres Across the Country

    Virtual Training for Electricians Available at Many IBEW Canada Training Centres Across the Country

    June 23, 2025 Virtual Training for Electricians (VET) is now available at many IBEW Canada Training Centres nationwide — and more are coming online soon! Whether your centre is already equipped or in the process of setting up, this is a game-changing opportunity you won’t want to miss. Need assistance? Contact the NETCO team. What… Read More…

  • Designing for Demand: The Role of Transformers in a Resilient EV Future

    Designing for Demand: The Role of Transformers in a Resilient EV Future

    June 23, 2025 Transformers in the EV Charging Boom: Are We Ready for the Load? As electric vehicles (EVs) continue their rapid rise, one question looms over the energy sector, municipalities, and developers alike: Is our infrastructure truly ready for the surge in demand? From city streets to highway rest stops, new EV chargers are… Read More…

  • The Time is Now: An Industrial Energy Efficiency Action Plan

    The Time is Now: An Industrial Energy Efficiency Action Plan

    June 23, 2025 In a whitepaper released on June third, ABB has set out the scale of the challenge facing the global industrial sector and emphasizes the critical role of industrial energy efficiency in meeting rising energy demand while strengthening energy security & affordability and driving industrial competitiveness. With 45% of the world’s electricity converted… Read More…

  • Multi-Family Construction Intentions Weigh Down Residential Sector

    Multi-Family Construction Intentions Weigh Down Residential Sector

    June 23, 2025 In April, the total value of building permits issued in Canada decreased by $829.6 million (-6.6%) to $11.7 billion. British Columbia (-$1.2 billion) led this decrease in construction intentions, which was mitigated by Ontario (+$299.3 million). On a constant dollar basis (2023=100), the total value of building permits issued in April fell by 6.6% from the previous… Read More…


Changing Scene

  • Stanpro Makes Significant Donation to Help Haven on the Queensway Move to a Larger Facility

    Stanpro Makes Significant Donation to Help Haven on the Queensway Move to a Larger Facility

    June 23, 2025 In an effort to provide essential resources to individuals and families in need in the GTA, EFC members once again stepped up to support Haven on the Queensway, a community resource centre in Etobicoke, ON. Earlier this year, Haven secured a new, larger location nearby its existing facility to meet growing demand… Read More…

  • Metalumen Manufacturing, Inc. Announces NRG INTENSI-T as New Sales Agency in Quebec

    Metalumen Manufacturing, Inc. Announces NRG INTENSI-T as New Sales Agency in Quebec

    June 23, 2025 Metalumen Manufacturing, Inc. is pleased to welcome NRG INTENSI-T as its new sales agency for the Quebec region. This partnership strengthens regional support and reflects a shared commitment to innovation and excellence. Since 1977, Metalumen has been designing, engineering, and manufacturing lighting products that blend functionality with design, offering luminaires tailored to… Read More…

  • IDEAL Electrical™ and BILT® Make it Easier to Learn Conduit Bending

    IDEAL Electrical™ and BILT® Make it Easier to Learn Conduit Bending

    June 23, 2025 Conduit bending – one of the hardest skills for professional electricians to master – is now easier than ever to learn, thanks to a first-of-its kind partnership between BILT, an app that has revolutionized step-by-step interactive instructions for DIYers and IDEAL Electrical, a 108-year old manufacturer of electrical tools and supplies for professional electricians…. Read More…

  • Introducing the New WAGO App: Your Jobsite Sidekick

    Introducing the New WAGO App: Your Jobsite Sidekick

    WAGO at your fingertips — scan the QR to get the app now. Stay connected with WAGO wherever you go. Download the WAGO App to access product details, documentation, configuration tools, as well as local distributors — all from your mobile device. Scan the QR code to get started on the App Store or Google… Read More…