A new program from Build a Dream hopes to encourage more young women to enter skilled trades by giving them the tools they’ll need to work in the industry.
The initiative, #HerPower Tools, is sponsored by distributor WFS Ltd. and manufacturer Milwaukee Tool, and is designed to “provide resources and encouragement for individuals who are under-represented in these pathways and may leave a program if they are unsure of where to find support.”
Young women and gender non-conforming students registered in a youth apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship or registered apprenticeship program can register with Build a Dream and apply for the chance to win one of 100 tool bags filled with essential job tools.
Winners will be mailed a Build a Dream branded cloth tool bag containing a 16-ft. compact wide blade tape measure; black fine point marker; 8-in-1 compact multi-bit driver; 18-piece impact driver set; compact flip utility knife; 19-oz milled face hickory handle framing hammer; and luggage tag. They will also have access to career resources and support, mentors and networking opportunities.
“We want to equip young women with actual tools when they start their trades journey but we also wanted to provide more than just physical tools,” says Build a Dream president and founder Nour Hachem-Fawaz. “They’re going to belong to our network and have access to role models, mentors, industry reps wanting to diversify their workforce, and educators that have unique opportunities to share. We’re giving access to the tools and networks to help women thrive in their career journey.”
Windsor, ON-based Build a Dream is a national non-profit organization dedicated to advancing diversity and inclusion in the skilled trades. Its programs are designed to inspire young women and close the workforce gender gap.
The program runs until May 2022.
For more information visit We Build a Dream.