Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to attend the Centre for Skills Development in Burlington, alongside Minister Williams, Minister Tangri and PA David Smith, to launch a call for applications for the Women’s Economic Security Program. Thanks to the Women’s Economic Security Program, more women have access to skills training, gaining the experience to embark on a career to good-paying jobs in the trades.

The Centre for Skills Development has provided their Enhanced General Carpentry program to women for over 20 years and has seen great success, with over 300 participants securing sustainable, financially rewarding and meaningful employment in the construction sector. Their 22-week program prepares participants to work in a variety of skilled trades within the construction industry, from residential builds to high-end renovations. Other services at the centre include one-on-one job search coaching, settlement services, LINC and ELT classes, academic upgrading and fully funded pre-apprenticeship skilled trade programs. Collectively, the centres serve around 20,000 people in Halton region and Mississauga.

Thank you to the Centre for Skills Development for delivering the programs that continue breaking down barriers for women, giving them the tools they need to earn bigger paycheques for themselves and their families.