Digital Skills and Training – Job Seekers and Employers
TradeUP: Skilled Trades for Women
Less than 5% of the people in the skilled trades identify as women. TradeUP aims to increase that.
Discover a lucrative career in construction trades through hand-on making and activities, while preparing for a new chapter with guidance from expert tradeswomen. The program is free, and you’ll earn $1,600 just by taking part.
Trade Up – a free, hands-on skilled trades introduction for women
In 2025, 47% of Kawartha Lakes industry and trades businesses reported a skills shortage, but demand for skilled workers is increasing.
The Trade Up program launched in 2025 as a pilot to fill this gap. Community demand was so strong that we’re expanding it with significant enhancements.
Over 6-weeks you will:
- Use the tools of the trades to build projects and kits.
- Speak to experienced tradeswomen about their professional experiences.
- Develop industry specific skills from reading blueprints to 3D modelling.
- Use new skills to get hands-on and complete trades tasks!
- Learn what you’ll need to launch your trades career!
* Our November sessions are full – register to be the first to know about the next sessions, happening in early 2027!
Eligibility – Applicants must:
• Be female identifying aged 15+
• Be unemployed or underemployed
• Not be a registered Apprentice or Journeyperson
• Not have previously attended Trade Up
Allowances:
• Allowances for childcare
• Transportation
• PPE/and workwear including safety boots
