INDUSTRY NEWS
Matching hydraulically driven main and auxiliary hoist
drums utilize Link-Belt designed gear drives for either
straight power-up/power-down auto brake mode or can
also incorporate an optional “wet clutch” free fall feature,
if required.
CCDA statement on women in trades
It’s about ability, not gender
The Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship (CCDA)
and all of its members are celebrating the hard work and
dedication of the women who successfully work in the skilled
trades. In the skilled trades, the majority of which are male-dominated,
women have faced unique challenges including
gender-biased stereotyping, lack of female mentors and
positive role models and challenges balancing caregiving
responsibilities with unsupportive work arrangements and
inadequate access to childcare. Not only are these women
successfully entering these occupations, they often do so in
very small numbers. Women continue to be largely under-represented
in the skilled trades.
Why so few women in the skilled trades?
Gender research suggests that male-dominted occupations
are often surrounded by a culture that does not anticipate
or respond adequately to the needs of women and diverse
groups. This culture can create a barrier for many women
wanting to enter the labour market and break through to the
careers they really want. Women who start apprenticeships
may not complete to certification because of the workplace
culture, even with the promise of better wages.
We need to act
The research also shows that this culture does not reflect
the actual beliefs and values held by many men and women.
This mean that change is possible and can start with us.
Many workplace leaders are implementing sexual harass-ment
and respectful workplace policies. In many work
sites, this has improved the environment for all employees.
Unfortunately, we are not yet there, and women continue to
experience inappropriate conduct at work. Employers and
labour organizations must continue to play a leadership
role to create change. With everyone working together, we
will ensure these policies translate into safe and respectful
work environments.
It is time to create a new culture that revolves around
diversity, passion, artistry and, most importantly, ability, not
gender. We must continue to create collaborative cultures
and reframe work environments so that we are all aware of
our biases and support the success of everyone.
Blaze a trail; leave a legacy
The evidence is clear, the best and most effective way to
increase the number of women in male-dominated fields is
to see women working in them. We salute Canada’s female
apprentices and journeypersons for following their dreams
and forging a path for other women.
If you are a young girl or woman interested in apprentice-ship,
look for role models and seek mentors and colleagues
that support you in your journey. Be prepared to stand up for
your beliefs. Know your strengths and skills, your values, your
talents and your passions. We encourage you to pursue your
interests and follow your dreams.
What can you do?
The CCDA is calling all leaders to action. Get to know what is
going on in your workplace and ensure the women working
in the skilled trades are given quality work, are supported to
learn and carry out their tasks successfully and experience a
respectful workplace. We can all do better; for our mothers,
daughters and sisters. Together we can blaze the trail! There
is power in numbers.
COURTESY OF AEM
PILING CANADA 75
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