Enhancing the Retention and Advancement of Women in Trades in British Columbia: Final Report

Purpose and scope of this report This study aims to develop an enriched understanding of the systemic and structural factors that present barriers to women’s participation in the trades, as well as the types of supports and services that would enhance entry and retention rates – and respond to these needs specifically in the unique context of British Columbia. [...] By consulting with women currently working in the trades, those who have recently left the trades, and with a sample of employers, this study aims to develop an enriched understanding of the systemic and structural factors that present barriers to women’s participation in the trades, as well as the types of supports and services that would enhance entry and retention rates – and respond to these n. [...] Given the diversity of the key informants, the breadth and complexity of the issues involved, and the focus on developing an in-depth understanding of these, we adapted the line of inquiry in each interview to the specific interest and expertise of the key informant. [...] While women tended to link this prevailing image of the trades to the male-dominant culture of the trades, employers were more likely to attribute it to the lack of information by parents and teachers around the benefits of the trades, who consequently discouraged young women and girls from taking it up as a profession. [...] Lack of mentors in the workplace Related to the lack of networks is the theme of the lack of mentors in the workplace, which serves as a barrier for women in two ways.