The trades are some of the few jobs which are in high demand and have been for some time. The Government of Canada estimates that there is a need for over 250,000 skilled trade workers over the next five years to meet demand.
Currently, women only make up 8 per cent of the trades workforce, according to Statistics Canada, with industry experts suggesting the number is closer to 5 per cent. Former Olympic boxer Mandy Bujold and fellow industry leaders are finding ways to help the next generation of Women in Skilled Trades in Waterloo Region.