HerJourney: Women in Manufacturing Skilled Trades

Key Topics

• The skilled trades labour gap in manufacturing
• Misconceptions about women’s roles in industrial workplaces
• Business and economic benefits of diverse teams

Learning Outcomes

1. Understand structural and workplace-specific barriers that limit women’s participation in trades
2. Identify key benefits of gender diversity in skilled trades, from productivity to innovation
3. Recognize opportunities for employers to create inclusive entry points into their workforce

About our Guest Speaker: James Demers (He/him) is a licensed skilled trade carpenter who then changed careers to become a diversity educator and workplace consultant – with 15 years of experience helping organizations create inclusive, accessible, and equitable workplaces. He has supported teams in employee engagement, leadership development, and accessibility strategies. With a strong focus on workplace culture and diverse learning styles, James designs practical, interactive, and adaptable training that meets the needs of diverse teams. He has led initiatives on policy development, equity frameworks, and inclusive leadership, ensuring organizations foster environments where all employees can thrive. Based in Treaty 7 Territory (Mo’kinsis), James is committed to removing barriers, improving accessibility, and enhancing employee experiences through education, strategic planning, and organizational change.