Level Up
Providing women with the support and resources to easily find opportunities in the skilled trades industry
While there are many opportunities and benefits for careers in the trades, there is a huge problem of under-representation of women. There will soon be a lack of workers in the trades because many of the current workers are coming close to retirement, and it would be tremendous if women could fill this gap. It is challenging for women to break into an industry that has traditionally been dominated by men. While steps are being taken to eliminate any discrimination and to debunk stereotypes of women working in this industry, there are many other issues that need to be addressed.
Supporting women in the trades at a local level is very important.
As more young girls are taught that the skilled trades are a viable career option for them, fewer girls will dismiss the career choice as not for them.
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
PROBLEM STATEMENT
While there are many opportunities and benefits for careers in the trades, there is a huge problem of under-representation of women. It is challenging for women to break into an industry that men have traditionally dominated.
SOLUTION STATEMENT
Under-representation of women in the skilled trades must be addressed by promoting, educating, and supporting women in the skilled trades, along with debunking stereotypes, so these women can consider the trades as a viable career option.
SUPPORTING DATA
OF WOMEN REPRESENT THE CONSTRUCTION TRADES
4%
In other skilled trades, that number is even smaller.
SURVEY
INSIGHTS
Data was gathered from one-on-one interviews with women in various trades (electrical, welding, HVACR, plumbing, automotive collision, and carpentry) with 10 months to 19 years of experience. These interviews delved into their overall trade experience, including what sparked their interest, support from family, friends, and finances, and their treatment in the workplace.
Enjoy working with their hands and learning new things
COMMON FINDINGS FROM THE INTERVIEWS
Had support and guidance to join the industry
Did not receive any funding for training, with most being unaware of the available funding options in Canada for women in the trades
Experienced harassment, gender discrimination, tokenism while at work
There is poor retention with apprenticeships and training because of their gender
PAIN POINTS
DISCOVERY
This topic and finding solutions is particularly challenging since it's the company's responsibility to lead this change in the industry.
The key achievement of this project would be to offer young women the support and resources needed to pursue skilled trades. Ultimately, the aim is to create a welcoming community within the trades that values and supports everyone, regardless of gender.
THERE NEEDS TO BE A CHANGE TO THE NARRATIVE TO DEBUNK STEREOTYPES ABOUT WOMEN IN SKILLED TRADES
HOME PAGE
BENEFITS
MENTORSHIP
FUNDING
ABOUT
KENETIC TYPE
BRANDING
