Building a Diverse Skilled Trades Workforce

Build your network, share experiences, and learn from others in a supportive environment.

8:30 am: Arrival-Registration and Breakfast

9:00 am: Welcome and Opening Remarks

9:15 am: Keynote Presentation – Stephanie Shrum, Canadian Apprenticeship Forum

This keynote presentation will delve into research findings and best practices for recruiting and retaining women in skilled trades. Discover the latest strategies for building a diverse and inclusive workforce, addressing barriers, and creating long-term, sustainable change in manufacturing organizations. Gain insights from experts on overcoming industry challenges and learn about initiatives that have successfully attracted and retained women in skilled trades roles.

10:00 am: Networking Break

10:15 am: HerJourney: Supporting Women in Manufacturing Skilled Trades

Join us for an insightful workshop focused on enhancing your company's approach to hiring and retaining women in skilled trades positions. EMC's HerJourney project is dedicated to fostering success, support, and retention among women apprentices and journeywomen in Canada's manufacturing sector. In this workshop, we will gain insights into the specific challenges encountered by women apprentices and tradeswomen, explore EMC's initiatives aimed at driving positive change and engage in guided discussions to exchange insights and share wise practices.

11:00 am: Talent Panel: Learning from Tomorrow's Skilled Trades Professionals Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring individuals who are the future of the skilled trades industry. These emerging leaders will share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations as they navigate training and apprenticeships. Gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of skilled trades through the fresh perspectives of the next generation.

11:45 am: Lunch and Networking

12:45 pm: Employer Panel: Building Inclusive Manufacturing Workplaces for Women in Trades

Join industry leaders as they discuss the importance of creating inclusive manufacturing environments that support and empower women in the skilled trades. This panel will explore best practices, success stories, and the challenges employers face in fostering gender diversity.

1:30 pm: Closing Remarks and Wrap Up

Who Should Attend?

• Manufacturing leaders and managers
• HR professionals and recruiters
• Diversity and inclusion advocates
• Registered apprentices and journeypeople
• Skilled tradeswomen and those considering careers in manufacturing
• Educators and community organizations supporting women in trades

Contact Information: For more details or if you have any questions, please contact Susan at smclachlan@emccanada.org.

There is no cost to manufacturers and their skilled trades people to attend.

HerJourney is funded in part by the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy.