“Mothers are like glue. Even when you can’t see them, they’re still holding the family together.” – Susan Gale
Being a mother is no easy job. Much like building any long-lasting structure, mothers build up and support their children; not with concrete or scaffolding, but with love and encouragement so that their children can thrive and pursue a happy life. For Local 27 member Andrea Benavides, the goal is that no matter what they choose to do in life, her children will be healthy and happy.
Sister Benavides came to Canada from Colombia with the ambition of earning her Master’s in Early Childhood Education. However, obtaining her Master’s proved to be too expensive. As she was pregnant with her second child and trying to balance finances while her husband worked multiple jobs, it was clear that she would need to find another path forward.
That’s when Andrea found information about the Carpenters’ Union. Although she had never considered working in the trades before, Andrea quickly began her pre-apprenticeship just a few days after finishing maternity leave for her second child.
The support Andrea received from the Union made a huge difference. While completing her apprenticeship, the Union helped cover things like daycare expenses, transportation to and from classes, as well as providing tools, PPE, and work clothes. This support allowed Andrea to train and learn additional skills and helped significantly reduce her financial stress. With Union support, Andrea was able to focus on expanding her skill set and exploring new things, qualities she hopes to pass on to her two children, Mikaela, who is twelve, and Darko, who is three.
Andrea also says that her mother-in-law is her inspiration of how to be a loving and uplifting parent. Andrea deeply admires her mother-in-law, who is always available to listen and provide comfort, in addition to being a nurturing grandmother. Andrea is very thankful she has her.
When asked if her daughter Mikaela is interested in working in the trades, Andrea says that for now her daughter talks about wanting to be a teacher. Andrea jokes that she’ll occasionally drop a hint about how rewarding the trades can be. Mikaela loves learning, is active, and is very meticulous – traits Andrea says she shares with her daughter and are very helpful in the trades! Darko is a funny and observant toddler who loves playing with the Stanley toolbox that his mother gave him.
Andrea encourages other mothers considering a career in the trades with the same advice she gives her children: “don’t be afraid; dig in!” She also supports her fellow mothers on job sites by saying, “We see each other. I know you’re working hard, so keep fighting, and continue what you’re doing because we need you.” Andrea emphasizes the importance that the next generation of working mothers and women carry on the legacy of the tradeswomen who came before them.
