There’s an opportunity for local women to learn more about trades opportunities.
Women in Trades Training is hosting public information session Wednesday from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Vernon Trades Facility, 6255C Okanagan Landing Rd.
“Join us to learn more about the Gateway program and take a tour of our shop,” said Kim Noakes, recruiting and marketing co-ordinator for Okanagan College Women in Trades.
WITT will offer a 12-week exploratory trades program for women called the Gateway to the Building Trades for Women starting in Vernon April 10.
During this 12 week exploratory trades program, participants are introduced to trades which may include carpentry, welding, plumbing, automotive, and electrical. They build projects individually and as a team. The program also includes occupational first aid certification and employment readiness skills training.
A few years ago, Maddison Roukema was considering becoming an electrician but had some doubts. What it would be like to step into the trades, a field traditionally dominated by men? Would she be accepted on the jobsite? What were job prospects like?
She found the answers to her questions through Gateway.
“I went in with no background in the trades whatsoever,” said Roukema.
“It opened my eyes to so many different areas of the trades, and helped me discover the trade I now do for a living and absolutely love.”
After completing Gateway, Roukema enrolled in the sheet metal foundation program. She graduated last September and landed a job within days with Kelowna-based Aspen Heating and Sheet Metal.
It’s work she loves – and she attributes her confidence on the job to the support she received during Gateway.
“The program gave me so many new skills and a belief in myself that I have carried into my career.”
More information is available at www.okanagan.bc.ca/witt.
