There is a crisis in construction, and women are part of the solution.

According to BuildForce Canada, 254,800 people, or 21 per cent of the current construction workforce, is expected to retire by 2027. That’s 14,000 more people retiring than are expected to enter the construction industry over the same period.

Carpenter Yuka Yoshino, a member of the BC Regional Council of Carpenters, gave this moving speech at Build TogetHER’s International Women’s Day breakfast in March.

Krystin Nowicki, an apprentice electrician with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 993, was this year’s recipient of the annual $1,000 scholarship from Build TogetHER.

Women aren’t only advancing in the trades and helping to build our province; they are taking on roles as union leaders, too.

Build TogetHER's Katy Rhodes (top) and Antoniette Yap (bottom) are among five Canadian tradeswomen heading to India Nov. 1-14 to build relationships and share their knowledge and experience with tradeswomen in India.

Ashley Duncan, co-chair of Build TogetHER BC, recently took issue with a column written by Black Press legislative reporter Tom Fletcher. 

Meet Robyn Hacking! 

Build TogetHER BC caught up with Robyn recently to learn more about the life of a sprinkler fitter. Check out her "Norma Rae moment" - 2019 happens to be the 100th anniversary of the Winnipeg General Strike. 

Build TogetHER BC was honoured to present the committee’s first scholarship ever to BC Regional Council of Carpenters Local 1907 apprentice HyeonLee Jeong (Kelley) on Jan. 26.

The women’s caucus of the BC Building Trades has become the first chapter in Canada to welcome transgender people to its membership.

Name: Chelsea French
Trade: Commercial Transportation Mechanic
Union: IUOE Local 115
Main reason I selected my trade: I have always loved working with my hands and this industry found me and informed me of the opportunity to better support my family. A stable career in a set location, with set hours, and financial stability while doing something I really enjoy.
Number of women in your first trades class: 0
Favourite tool of your trade: I love all the tools ... the more the better! If I had to only pick one though it would likely be an air hammer.