Participants of the first Electrical Pre-Apprenticeships Program for Women were recently celebrated at St. Clair College for achieving their training goals.
If a year ago, someone had painted a future picture of Kourtney Belisle’s life, there was no way it would have included lathes, drills and welding torches.
The 29-year-old owned her own fitness studio in Northern Ontario and was quite happy being her own boss.
But then COVID happened, and Belisle was forced to pivot.
When Derric'Ka Talbot first heard about St. Clair College's pre-apprentice program through Women's Enterprise Skills Training (WEST), she didn't believe such a thing existed.
"Free schooling?" she thought.
A new venture aimed at increasing women's participation and retention rates in Red Seal trades across Ontario has received over $2 million in federal funding.
Jamie Hitchcock, a 3rd-year apprentice in the General Machinist program at St. Clair College, is making waves in the traditionally male-dominated field of skilled trades. Her remarkable journey serves as a testament to dedication, passion, and resilience, as she defies stereotypes and pursues her dreams.
In a field traditionally dominated by men, Lindsay Goddard, a 3rd-year apprentice in the General Machinist program at St. Clair College, is making waves and defying stereotypes. Her remarkable journey in the machining industry highlights not only her personal growth but also the importance of diversity and representation in skilled trades.