A new perspective on opportunity

■ A visit to any Canadian construction site proves there is a shortage of skilled female workers on the job.

Typically, less than three percent of all apprentices in construction, automotive and industry trades are women. Considering the average age of a skilled tradesperson is 55, the short supply of skilled workers will become more urgent, as 40 percent of the workforce is expected to retire in the next 10 years.

Taking a new perspective

This situation requires industry as a whole to think differently about whom it can attract, and this shift should provide an abundance of opportunities for women who are considering careers in skilled trades and technology.

Women now make up one half of the workforce, and in order to fill the human resource crunch caused by increased retirements, educators, government and industry must work together to encourage more female workers to look at the skilled trades and technologies as a first-choice career option.

Getting the real story

There are many myths around women working in skilled trades. Skills Canada-ontario and Women in Nuclear-canada addressed many of the misconceptions held by students, parents, educators and industry and offered recommendations for positive change in their collaborative paper, Women Working in the Skilled Trades and Technologies— Myths and Realities. (www.skillsontario.com/womenintradesmythsandrealities)

Careers in the skilled trades or technical fields offer well-paying jobs, while providing an opportunity to “earn while you learn” through apprenticeships and offering outstanding opportunities for advancement. While there is certainly a physical component to most trades, technology has changed the nature of how work gets done. Work in the skilled trades today increasingly uses computer software and sophisticated mechanical equipment, so the reality is that skilled trades require workers with less brawn and more of a strong academic foundation in reading, writing, math and sciences, along with dexterity, stamina and good hand-eye coordination—all qualities women possess equally with men.

The skilled trades cannot afford to underutilize or overlook any segment of the talent pool.

Our society’s infrastructure depends on a skilled workforce. Women have an important role to play in keeping Canada strong! For more information visit www. wincanada.org and www.skillsontario.com.