Indigenous women break barriers in the trades, fill critical gaps in Alberta – ReNew Canada

March 7, 2025

As Women in Construction Week and International Women’s Day shine a spotlight on the contributions of women in male-dominated industries, Trade Winds to Success is proud to recognize the Indigenous women who are breaking barriers and building futures in the skilled trades.

With Alberta’s construction industry facing a critical skilled labour shortage and housing starts projected to grow along with industrial and commercial buildings, the demand for trained workers has never been higher. The province is expected to see over 42,000 construction workers retire by 2033, while the population continues to expand at record rates. Addressing this labour gap requires diversifying the workforce, and Indigenous women are stepping up to the challenge.

“The trades offer a direct path to stable, well-paying careers, but for too long, women—especially Indigenous women—have been underrepresented,” said Shannon McCarthy, executive director of Trade Winds to Success. “We are changing that by providing Indigenous women with the training, confidence, and opportunities to succeed in careers traditionally dominated by men. Their success is proof that when barriers are removed, women thrive in these fields.”

Read More: https://www.renewcanada.net/indigenous-women-break-barriers-in-the-trades-fill-critical-gaps-in-alberta/