The Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) recently launched its Women’s Advancement Project in St. John’s, Newfoundland. CAWIC is calling on industry employers, unions and educational partners to collaborate with CAWIC to address the shortage of skilled trades in Canada by promoting the entry and advancement of women into leadership roles within the construction industry.
Earlier this year, CAWIC was awarded a grant from the Government of Canada for $249,900 through Status of Women Canada. The grant will fund a three-year project to conduct research and develop, with collaboration from industry employers and female participants, an action plan to open doors for women’s entry, retention and advancement into leadership roles within the construction industry.
CAWIC is actively seeking employer partners who share its vision to promote change and break down barriers for women in the industry, to create an action plan that makes economic sense, is realistic and attainable. Industry employers with operations in Alberta, Ontario and Newfoundland/Labrador have the opportunity to get directly involved in this important initiative.
“This is an important step for the construction industry. Working collaboratively, we will advance women’s roles in the industry,” said CAWIC director, Tammy Evans. “We are proud to work with the Government of Canada to address Canada’s skilled trades’ shortage and to attract more women to the construction industry.”
The government continues its support of CAWIC’s cause, saying it benefits in a number of ways.
“Our government is pleased to continue our support of CAWIC. We are committed to ensuring that women are able to excel in all sectors of the economy – from the shop floor to the corporate boardroom to the jobsite,” said the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Lietch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women. “It’s good for women, it’s good for the economy and it’s good for Canada. When Canadian women succeed, the whole country prospers.”
About CAWIC
CAWIC is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit national association supporting the entry, retention and advancement of women within the Canadian construction industry through our core values of leadership, membership, mentorship and partner- ship. For further information on CAWIC and its activities, please visit www.cawic.ca. 