Supporting Success
Building Opportunities
About the Program
The Sisters in the Skilled Trades (SST) Apprenticeship Support Program is designed to provide comprehensive support for women apprentices in Red Seal trades, guiding them through every stage of their apprenticeship journey toward achieving Red Seal journeyperson status.
Initiated and managed by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) Canadian District, the SST program aims to significantly enhance the completion and retention rates of female apprentices within the UBC. By addressing the unique challenges faced by women in the trades, the program works to reduce attrition and foster long-term success in their careers.
This initiative is partially funded by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, underscoring a shared commitment to promoting gender diversity and supporting skilled tradespeople.
Overcoming Barriers
Women in the trades face a unique set of challenges that can significantly impact their career progression and overall experience in the construction industry. Despite their skills and dedication, it takes an average of six years for a woman to complete a standard four-year apprenticeship. This extended timeline often results from a combination of systemic barriers, such as a lack of tailored support and persistent workplace biases.
Women may encounter obstacles including limited access to mentorship, fewer networking opportunities, and a less inclusive work environment. Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring that women can not only enter but also thrive in the trades, ultimately leading to a more diverse and equitable industry.
Financial Support for Dependent Care, Transportation, and Long-Distance Accommodations:
Assistance with costs related to childcare, commuting, and temporary housing, ensuring that apprentices can focus on their training without undue financial strain.
Financial Support for Books, Tools, and PPE:
Coverage for essential resources and equipment needed for training, including textbooks, tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE), to ensure apprentices are well-prepared and safe.
Access to Tutoring Support:
Personalized academic assistance to help apprentices overcome challenges and excel in their coursework, providing tailored help to meet their individual needs.
Financial Literacy Training:
Educational resources and workshops to enhance financial management skills, empowering apprentices with the knowledge to manage their finances effectively throughout their apprenticeship.
Financial Support
Assistance with costs related to childcare, commuting, and temporary housing - ensuring that apprentices can focus on their training without undue financial strain.
Books, Tools, & PPE
Coverage for essential resources & equipment needed for training, including textbooks, tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE), to ensure apprentices are prepared and safe.
Tutoring Support
Personalized academic assistance to help apprentices overcome challenges and excel in their coursework, providing tailored help to meet their individual needs.
Financial Literacy Training
Educational resources and workshops to enhance financial management skills, empowering apprentices with the knowledge to manage their finances effectively throughout their career.
Programs & Initiatives
This initiative is partially funded by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, underscoring a shared commitment to promoting gender diversity and supporting skilled tradespeople.
More from UBCOutcomes
01Increased Progression of Women in Apprenticeship Programs
Enhanced support and resources lead to higher rates of advancement for women in their apprenticeships, ensuring they make steady progress toward achieving journeyperson status and advancing their careers in the trades.
02Improved Worksite Culture in Areas of Acceptance and Welcoming of Diverse Workers
The program fosters a more inclusive and supportive work environment, promoting a culture of acceptance and respect for diversity, which helps create a positive and collaborative atmosphere on jobsites.
03Enhanced Financial Understanding for Women Apprentices
Through targeted financial literacy training, women apprentices gain a clearer understanding of personal finance management, leading to better financial planning and stability throughout their apprenticeships and beyond.
04Increased Awareness Among Employers of Barriers Faced by Women in the Industry
The program helps employers recognize and address the specific challenges faced by women in the trades, leading to more supportive and equitable workplace practices that help retain and support female workers.
Sisters in the Skilled Trades
Apprenticeship Training Supports Application
For more information on the program, please contact trades@ubcja.ca.