Women learning about non-traditional careers

A new project in Prince Edward Island is teaching women about careers they might not have otherwise considered.

“We are thrilled to support this unique empowerment project that aims to increase the number of women in trades and technology roles on Prince Edward Island,” Workforce and Advanced Learning Minister Richard Brown said. “This project is a great way to increase the visibility of female trade workers and help to diversify and strengthen our workforce.”

The Women’s Economic Empowerment Project — led by Women’s Network PEI with support from the province’s Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning — promotes career options in trades and technology for women through a variety of programming, including Trade HERizons and PropELLE programs. It uses a mix of hands-on learning and classroom sessions.

“We are grateful to the Province for participating in this project with us, and we are thrilled to be able to offer two unique employment programs for women,” said Jaime Griffin, project manager at Women’s Network PEI. “We have designed our programming to help women address both personal challenges they are experiencing, as well as the usual employment barriers to working in traditionally male industries. Our programs will give women the skills and confidence necessary to create successful and sustainable livelihoods.”

The Women’s Economic Empowerment Project is made possible by the Women’s Network PEI and funding from the Province through the Canada-PEI Labour Market Development Agreement and the Canada-PEI Job Fund Agreement.

 “I’m looking forward to the program because I want to prove to myself and to others that we are all capable of doing anything we set our minds to,” said PropELLE program participant Josephine O’Brien. “I'm excited to focus on what makes me happy and helps me excel at my everyday life and work. I also want to empower other women and encourage them to do the things they want to do, with excitement.”

Backgrounder

Women’s Economic Empowerment Project

Trade HERizons, an 11-week program, focuses on career exploration in the trades, job shadowing, labour market research, career development including resume writing and interview skills, conflict resolution training, career and safety training, team building, and more. Hands-on learning opportunities in areas, including: welding, plumbing, electrical, gas engine turbine, precision machining, automotive, power engineering, and carpentry.
 
PropELLE is a newly developed 11-week program that builds on addressing labour market shortages in traditionally male industries. This program is designed for women who have barriers to employment but wish to make the next step in employment or education. The focus of this program is on the personal development of the individual with some exposure to employment options including school bus and truck driving; agriculture; heavy equipment; fishing; and technology.

Media contact:

Sheila Kerry
Senior Communications Officer
(902) 620-3688
slkerry@gov.pe.ca