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Unifor hosted a five-day program of skilled trades awareness in June in partnership with St. Clair College and Women Enterprise Skills Training..
This program was open to 75 unemployed and underemployed women in the Windsor Essex area seeking information about skilled trades, qualifications and classifications. It was held at at the Local 200/444 union hall in Windsor and funded by the Ontario Government's Women’s' Directorate.
Up to 25 women will be offered a 32-week CNC/Millwright/Mechanic pre-apprenticeship program at St. Clair College aimed at employment opportunities in the in the Windsor area.
While women comprise 48 per cent of the Canadian workforce, the Conference Board of Canada reports that typically less than 3 per cent of all apprentices in the construction, automotive and industry trades are women.
The program was led by a team of experienced skilled trades women and trainers. Workshops involved hands-on introduction to work with electrical circuitry, robotics and wood and metal work.
Other workshops included preparation for aptitude testing and job interviews. Guest speakers provided a great deal of information about skilled trades apprenticeship in Ontario and the variety of pathways to apprenticeship. Presenters included area employers, Canadian Armed Forces, Ontario College of Trades and the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.
A highlight of the week came with the participation of some graduates from last year’s course, who have since gone on to success in starting apprenticeships.
