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The Ontario Ministry of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity is investing up to $1.18 million over three years that will allow 60-low-income women to take an enhanced general carpentry training program in Burlington.

Charmaine Williams, associate minister of women’s social and economic opportunity, made the announcement at Burlington’s Centre for Skills Development during a news conference at the 3335 North Service Rd. facility.

“The Women’s Economic Security Program empowers women to achieve financial independence by breaking down barriers to career training opportunities,” said Williams.

The cash injection is part of Ontario’s investment of up to $26.7 million over three years in 25 local programs across the province that provide career training opportunities for women, helping them gain the skills, knowledge and experience they need to find a job or start a business and gain financial independence.

“The Women in Skilled Trades program at the centre for skills development empowers women to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields. By providing comprehensive hands-on training, mentorship, and support, the program opens doors to rewarding careers in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work,” said Centre for Skills Development CEO Lisa Rizzato.

Organizations funded under the Women’s Economic Security Program deliver employment, pre-employment, pre-apprenticeship and entrepreneurship training to low-income women. The 25 training programs are delivered through partnerships between women-centred organizations, educational institutions, and businesses.

Since its inception in 2018, the program has helped more than 2,600 women secure employment, become entrepreneurs or pursue further training and education. This includes helping 1,298 women start small businesses and 237 get jobs in the skilled trades.

The Women’s Economic Security Program also includes additional supports such as providing meals throughout the training day, transportation to and from training, and support finding child care.

“The Centre for Skills Development’s Women in Skilled Trades program is a 22-week hands on program designed to prepare women to work in a variety of in demand skilled trades within the construction and carpentry industry,” said Rizzato.

“It provides wraparound supports and comprehensive skills training that equips women with the skills, knowledge and experience to find a job, or start a small business, in the construction sector. Centre for skills is recognized for providing our employer partners with employees that not only demonstrate the technical skills but have learned the necessary soft skills that allow them to maintain sustainable employment and grow their careers within the skilled trades industries and help fill the labour force gap.”