The United Brotherhood of Carpenters - Canadian District Commends Federal Government's Commitment to Supporting Men and Women in the Trades

Budget 2018 introduces important initiatives to encourage women, underrepresented groups to enter the trades

TORONTO, Feb. 28, 2018 /CNW/ - The Canadian District of United Brotherhood Carpenters (UBC) welcomes new initiatives introduced by the Government of Canada in Budget 2018 that will help underrepresented groups, including women, enter, work and succeed in a career in the trades.

Today, women make up only make up 11% of Red Seal Trades like carpentry. Budget 2018 proposes several programs to encourage and support women entering the trades, including an Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Women, and a Women in Construction Fund, designed to help provide mentoring and support to allow women to progress through their training.

Budget 2018 also pledges to support other underrepresented groups, including newcomers and Indigenous Peoples to explore career opportunities and gain work experience within the trades through Pre-Apprenticeship Program. These programs will be pursued in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, post-secondary institutions, training providers and unions, like the UBC.

"We appreciate the Government of Canada's commitment to helping all Canadians get a career in the trades", said Jason Rowe, Vice President Canada. "Canada's trades are a vibrant and important part of our country and our economy. I'm confident that these initiatives will inspire more women and other underrepresented groups to join us in building up Canada while at the same time gaining the necessary training to earn a great living for their families".

As a member of the UBC, we are a proud supporter of Sisters in the Brotherhood: a program that supports female members by providing assistance in obtaining craft training and leadership skills; advocating on women's issues, and by mentoring new and potential members to succeed.

"Despite what some people might think, the trades aren't a boy's only club – women are working hard and helping build the infrastructure all around us" said Tony Iannuzzi, Executive Secretary Treasurer, Carpenters' District Council of Ontario. "I'm thrilled to hear that our government is supporting women to succeed in the trades. It's important and fulfilling work".

The UBC continues to look for more ways to support equitable and inclusive trades, for all Canadians. Those looking to get involved are encouraged to contact their local affiliated union.

About the UBC
The Canadian District of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America represents seven Regional Councils and three independent locals across Canada and is comprised of 56 affiliated Local Unions. UBC Canadian Councils operate 40 training centres across Canada and represents close to 60,000 women and men working in a wide range of skilled areas including carpentry, drywall, resilient flooring, millwork, concrete formwork, underwater construction, welding, scaffolding, and a long list of other construction-related work. In addition, our Union represents many industrial workers and thousands of highly skilled workers in the health care sector. Learn more at http://www.carpenters.org

SOURCE United Brotherhood of Carpenters

Nikki Holland, [email protected], 905-652-4140