The Growing Demand for Skilled Trades in Alberta

Alberta is experiencing a significant population boom, which has led to an increased demand for housing and infrastructure. This growth underscores the urgent need for more skilled workers in the trades. As the province continues to expand, the number of job opportunities in fields like construction, electrical work, and mechanics is expected to rise. This trend is creating a pathway for individuals to enter rewarding and lucrative careers that are essential to the province’s development. With the trades offering a wide range of specializations, there has never been a more exciting time to consider a career in this sector.

Breaking Down Barriers: Women in the Trades

Historically, the trades have been male-dominated, but this is changing. More women are taking up tools and entering the trades, challenging stereotypes and paving the way for future generations. Claire LeBlanc, an electrician turned aircraft maintenance engineer, is one such trailblazer. She chose the trades for their accessibility and earning potential, emphasizing that she could start working and earning while pursuing further education. Her decision to enter the trades has not only shaped her career but also inspired her daughter, Angeline Noble, to follow in her footsteps. The mother-daughter duo recently attended an open house at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), exploring the various trade options available. Angeline’s interest in mechanics, particularly with cars and motorcycles, highlights the diverse opportunities within the trades and the potential for women to excel in these fields.

The Power of Role Models in Encouraging Women to Pursue Trades

Angeline Noble credits her mother, Claire, as a key influence in her decision to pursue a career in the trades. “With her being an electrician, she’s more like a role model,” Angeline said. “So it’s like not only can men be in it, but so can I.” Role models like Claire are crucial in breaking down gender barriers and encouraging more women to enter the trades. Seeing women succeed in these fields helps to redefine perceptions and create a sense of belonging for others. The presence of women in the trades also brings diverse perspectives and skills, enriching the industry as a whole. As more women like Claire and Angeline share their experiences, they inspire others to consider careers they may have previously thought were out of reach.

The Current State of Women in the Trades

Despite the progress being made, women remain underrepresented in the trades. According to Tammy Amstutz of the Calgary Construction Association, women make up less than one in ten workers on construction sites, and barely more than one in ten in the industry overall. However, there is reason to be optimistic. In recent years, there has been a noticeable upward trend in the number of women entering the trades, thanks in part to the efforts of organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. These organizations are working to create more opportunities for women and to dismantle the barriers that have historically prevented them from entering these fields. As awareness and support continue to grow, the representation of women in the trades is expected to increase.

Opportunities for Growth and Development in the Trades

One of the most appealing aspects of a career in the trades is the potential for growth and development. According to Tammy Amstutz, the trades offer a wide range of career paths, from hands-on work to leadership roles. “Being able to develop into a site superintendent, getting into the office as an estimator or project manager, there’s more on-ramps and off-ramps to careers in the construction industry than most others,” she said. This flexibility allows individuals to choose the path that best suits their skills and interests, whether they prefer to remain in a technical role or move into management. With so many opportunities for advancement, the trades offer a dynamic and rewarding career that can evolve over time.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Women in the Trades

The story of Claire LeBlanc and her daughter Angeline Noble is just one example of how women are making their mark in the trades. As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow in Alberta, the need for more women to enter these fields becomes increasingly important. With the support of organizations like the Calgary Construction Association and the inspiration of role models like Claire, the future for women in the trades looks bright. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, women are proving that they have a vital role to play in shaping the future of Alberta’s construction and trade industries. As more women join the trades, they not only benefit themselves but also contribute to the overall growth and development of the province.