Women's Trades Training Initiative

Women’s Trades Training Initiative

The Women’s Trades Training Initiative is designed for women who enjoy hands-on work with competitive wages. Eligible women may be offered assistance to cover tuition, books, tools, and clothing.

When women apply for assistance through the Women's Trades Training Initiative, they can enroll in the Gateway to the Building Trades for Women program or choose direct entry into a trades foundation program.

Gateway to the Building Trades for Women

This 12-week (360 hrs) program provides practical and theoretical experience in a wide variety of building trade sectors. Students gain first-hand knowledge required to make informed decisions about which trade to pursue. Students learn practical skills and industry requirements for a variety of building trades and how to access employment and training within the trades.

In addition to gaining first-hand experience in building trades, participants gain industry knowledge through mentors and guest speakers. Skills crucial for employment in the trades will also be covered. Students will be better able to make an informed career decision by becoming aware of how to access training, apprenticeships and employment. Graduates from this program may seek direct entry into employment and apprenticeship or enter a trades foundation program. For an overview or more details on the program click here.

Trades Foundation Programs

Women who are confident in their ability and choice of trade can apply for funding to begin a trades foundation program without first taking the Gateway program. All of the trades foundation training programs offered at Okanagan College campuses are eligible for funding. For program start dates please contact the Trades & Apprenticeship office at trades@okanagan.bc.ca or call them at 250-862-5457.

If you are interested in more information or in receiving assistance through this initiative please submit a Funding Application Form to or call:

Women in Trades Office
Trades and Apprenticeship
1000 KLO Road
Kelowna BC V1Y 4X8
Phone: 250-762-5445 Ext. 4922, Cell 250-575-6194
Toll Free: 1-877-755-2266 Ext. 4922, Fax: 250-862-5469
Email: wtti@okanagan.bc.ca
Website: www.okanagan.bc.ca/wtti

Funding provided by the Industry Training Authority through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement.