Digital Skills and Training – Job Seekers and Employers
TradeUP ‘26 – Introduction to the Skilled Trades for Women
Less than 5% of the people in the skilled trades identify as women. But that number is growing…
Canada is building – every level of government across the country is focused on infrastructure, industry and homes – but we don’t have enough skilled trades people to match demand – we need women.
Today, women represent roughly 5% of the skilled trades, but that’s changing. Over the last 20 years, there’s been an average yearly increase of 7% in the number of new female Red Seal apprenticeships. Women are claiming their place in a lucrative, growing sector, and that space is only going to get bigger.
The TradeUP program launched in 2025 as a pilot. Community demand was so strong that we’re expanding it 10x in 2026, and making significant enhancements.
TradeUP 26 – a comprehensive 8-week program offering:
- Hands-on training and curriculum focused on the “tools of the trades”.
- An introduction to digital tools and software used in the sector, like Computer-aided Design and Drafting (CAD).
- Job preparedness training and employment preparation.
Stipend (if eligible):
- A $125 weekly stipend ($1000) for all participants.
Allowances:
- The potential for a post-program paid-internship.
- Allowances for childcare, transportation and workwear.
Internships:
- The potential for a post-program, 8-week paid internship.
Stipend:
A $125 weekly stipend ($1000) for all participants.
Internships:
The potential for a post-program, 8-week paid internship.
Allowances:
• The potential for a post-program paid-internship.
• Allowances for childcare, transportation and workwear.
