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Company president
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"I learn new things on each project and make challenges into opportunities. No two days are the same. ... But you have to be willing to learn." |
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Apprentice Electrician
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“It’s a career, not a job. Follow your instincts and stick with it. The trades offer a lot of options.” |
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Apprentice Welder
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“When I was in high school, I took a metals course that got me really interested in welding.” |
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Ironworker, Squamish Nation, BC
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“It’s a good living. You get to travel, meet other people, and see other places and other cities ... and you can say you built that stadium or that bridge.” |
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Ironworker
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“Don’t let anyone tell you it’s not for you. Never take no for an answer, when you know the answer should be yes.” |
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Building Construction Technician student
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“More girls need to get into this. It’s hard and it feels great when you see what you can create. It’s not a gendered thing. It’s a capability thing.” |
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Apprentice Electrician
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“Once you get a licence, a lot of things open up.” |
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Ironworker
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“We need to get the word out that women can do these jobs. Awareness is important, because the greater the awareness, the more women we’ll see in the skilled trades.” |
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Apprentice Bricklayer
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“I love being outside. I love building and creating things, so I started looking into the trades.” |
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Ironworker, Haida Cree, MB
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“The more you push, the more you'll find that you’re not going to be discouraged. You can break through those barriers and you’re going to feel better about yourself.” |
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Ironworker, Six Nations of the Grand River, ON
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“When you see the finished product … you have a sense of pride. If you have children you can take them there and say ‘I helped build that,’ and it makes you feel good." |
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Company owner
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"If you’re going to work that hard and have to prove yourself, be passionate about whatever career you choose." |
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Apprentice Plumber
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“It doesn’t matter what you look like, how old you are, or what trade you’re in. It’s a great career for women.” |
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Electrician, Welder
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“If you want to succeed with an apprenticeship, show up early. Arrive at 6:55AM and be prepared to work. Do some research into what courses and equipment will be required.” |
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Service Electrician
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“I love being part of creating something. That building will stand for years to come.” |
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Framer
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“I’ve tried a lot of things, but I’ve always gone back to construction.” |
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Company owner
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“There is a ton of opportunity out there in construction – especially if you're a skilled tradesperson with the theoretical knowledge behind you, because, simply put, there are certain things you can't outsource and swinging a hammer happens to be one of them – even better if you can swing a hammer and you know what you're talking about it.” |
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Ironworker
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“You have to enjoy what you do. Only go into it if you think it’s something you’ll enjoy. That makes all the difference. Don’t do it just to be different.” |
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Stone and Brick Mason and President of the Grand Valley Construction Association (GVCA)
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“Have a passion for it. Look forward to going to work every day. It’s not work, if you love what you do. And don’t settle for sameness.” |
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Electrical Foreman
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"It’s not enough to just be in the trades. If you lack passion and drive, then you won’t make it. Your knowledge and experience will ensure your next job.” |
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Heavy Equipment Operator
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“My father always told me when I was a labourer to keep my head up, pay attention and find a trade that I was interested in.” |
