We Are Trades provides employers with actionable steps to establish a safe and inclusive workplace for women. This is a journey and a process that takes time and dedication.
We Are Trades was developed by the Canadian Coalition for Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology (CCWESTT) and is funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada. The development process included conversations with many tradeswomen and employers across Canada, as well as research into existing and emerging practices. It also included a pilot program involving employers and skilled trades workers.
We Are Trades is designed to guide successful workplace change in three steps: CommitCreateSustain
The journey may not look the same for every workplace, but the goal is shared: to build a work environment where each person is valued and respected for their contributions.
In the next decade, Canada could have 40% of its labour force over the age of 55, the highest proportion on its record. Baby boomers will be retiring en masse, and for the first time in history there will be up to four generations of Canadians in the workforce. These changes are swift, and present employers with the challenge of filling significant shortages of skilled trades workers. One obvious and necessary solution is to focus recruitment efforts on traditionally underrepresented groups such as women, Indigenous peoples, new Canadians, LGBTQ2+ and people with disabilities.
There are many educated and capable women ready and willing to fill the gap! According to 2019 Statistics Canada reports, 50.4% of Canada’s population are women and over 66% of them are aged 25-64 with education beyond high school. Attracting diverse employees, and retaining their talent by providing safe and inclusive work environments, has proven to have a positive effect on the workplace and on the company’s bottom line. There is ample evidence that shows diverse teams are better equipped to foster innovation and will drive company performance and profitability.
It’s just SMART business!
Make a formal commitment.
The We Are Trades Pledges can be a powerful symbol of commitment and sends the right message to everyone that you are ready to create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Click below to download your printable version of the We Are Trades pledges. There is one for you and one for your organization
