SKILLED TRADES CAREER OPEN TO ALL
Mechanics, boilermakers, machinists and pipe fitters: Where once hands-on professions such as these seemed reserved only for the world’s musclebound men, industry members now say the door to a lucrative skilled trades career is wide open to people of all genders and backgrounds, and that it’s the perfect time to enter.
“Generally speaking, there has been a long-standing stigma associated with some skilled trades,” says Kevin Baker, principal and dean at Durham College’s School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship and Renewable Technology. “The myths that you have to be physically strong and that intellect is not necessary to become a tradesperson have largely been shattered.” Baker adds that while 25 to 30 years ago skilled trades was an occupational area of last resort for many, the many industries within this realm now hold coveted positions for all. “There is significant demand for workers in some skilled trade areas and it is forecasted that demand will increase rapidly as those currently working in the trades retire,” he says.
Baker adds that those considering a career in skilled trades should be aware that there are a number of paths this post-secondary pursuit can take them beyond completing an apprenticeship and becoming a journeyperson. “There are huge numbers of professionals across multiple industries who support journeypersons and can also benefit from studying a trade,” he says. “These are good, high-paying careers with job security” Baker further encourages those interested in trades to research incentive programs at the school of their interest, such as the Women in Skilled Trades networking program at Durham College.
“There are number of agencies and departments working very hard to promote skilled trades work and to encourage more women to explore it as a viable career option,” says Baker, listing the Ontario College of Trades and the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development as just two of the many institutions. Janna Erichsen, chair of part-time learning at Centennial’s School of Transportation, says that in the same vein, Centennial has taken on a dedicated community outreach coordinator for women in non-traditional careers who is committed to supporting gender diversity in the skilled trades. “This individual provides support to our female students in regards to advocacy and navigating barriers that present themselves during their studies,” she says. “They also work with students to increase their networks with employers who are looking to hire and support women in skilled trades.”
She adds that the college also works with local schools to provide experiential learning opportunities for young women by providing the opportunity to visit the campus and ‘try a trade.’ “Careers in the skilled trades offer rewarding work and the ability to grow and develop professionally through practice and hands on learning,” says Erichsen. She reminds that on a local level, there will always be a need for the repair and maintenance of infrastructure, such as keeping heat working in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. “These are the jobs that keep a city running.”