Three women of 15 who enrolled in the 12-week Women in the Trades program at Canadore College have chosen to continue their studies in skills-related full-time post-secondary programs this September. Another four will join them in January 2018.
A graduation was held last week as women from First Nations communities across Ontario completed Canadore College’s unique program.
The program is being hailed as a success by Judy Manitowabi, a manager at Canadore’s First Peoples’ Centre. She says that education leads to increases in confidence and has lasting effects on the students. Manitowabi also hails the student success rate as proof of the high commitment levels of the graduates.
Four key trade areas were offered in the program: building construction, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry. A holistic approach consistent with the cultural customs of the students was used for lessons on employability, self-development, academic knowledge, and safety certifications.
