Stacey Noronha | October 27th, 2025
“They Helped Me Take That Leap of Faith”: How Collaboration and Courage Are Powering Women’s Pathways into the Trades
When five women walked into the classroom, four weeks ago, many of them weren’t sure what to expect. Some were nervous. Some were excited. All of them were ready for a change.
For Maisie, that change meant possibility. “As a pregnant, 21-year-old mom to a one-year-old, I am so thankful for the support from Build a Dream,” she shared after the graduation ceremony.
“They helped me kick off my career and offered so much support along the way, with resources, help with childcare, work boots, tools expenses, and so much more. This experience truly changed my life. I would not have taken the risk without their support. Thank you, Build a Dream, you live up to your name.”
Maisie’s story is exactly why programs like the Introductory Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship for Women exist. Designed and delivered through a powerful partnership between Build a Dream, the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers (CUSW), and Bruce Power, with training support from ISEAD and Interval House of Hamilton, the initiative gave participants not only hands-on technical training, but also wraparound supports, mentorship, and—perhaps most importantly—a community that believes in them.
Over four weeks in classrooms across Bruce County, these women learned the fundamentals of electrical work. But they also learned something bigger: that they belong here.
“This has been such an amazing experience for me and a great opportunity to help further the women in trades community,” said Sierra, another graduate. “In the future, once I have more experience in the trade, I will definitely be interested in volunteering to be an advocate for this program and this organization!”
Her words reflect the ripple effect these programs create when women see themselves represented and supported; they turn around and hold the door open for others.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Nuclear Innovation Institute’s (NII) Advance Technology Campus, brought together partners, families, and community leaders to celebrate this milestone. There were hugs, laughter, and more than a few tears. The sense of pride was unmistakable, not just from the graduates, but from everyone who helped make their journeys possible.
Deputy Mayor Andrea Clarke of Kincardine captured that spirit perfectly:
“I want to congratulate and recognize not only the ladies who have completed the electrical pre-apprenticeship training program, but also the dedicated partners—Build a Dream, the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers, and Bruce Power—who have provided a foundation and safe space for these women to continue to excel in fields that have historically sought to keep them out.”
And that’s the heart of it. This program isn’t just about teaching women to wire circuits—it’s about rewiring the narrative of who belongs in the trades.
Bruce Power’s Adam Kahgee said it best:
“We are immensely proud of today’s graduates. The hard work and dedication needed to pursue a career in the trades is demonstrated here at the graduation ceremony, and we wish them all the best of luck in their future.”
Nathan DeGagne of CUSW added,
“At CUSW, we believe that every person should have the opportunity to pursue meaningful work that builds their future. Programs like this help create those pathways—combining skills, mentorship, and community support. We’re proud to stand beside these women as they take their next steps into the trades.”
Because what happened in Bruce County wasn’t just a graduation — it was a spark.
A spark of possibility. A spark of change. A spark of a more inclusive future for the skilled trades.
And that spark doesn’t stop here.
If you’re an employer or union inspired to launch a similar program, connect with our Partnerships Team at partnerships@webuildadream.com to explore how Build a Dream can support your recruitment and workforce development goals.
If you’re looking for work or interested in joining future programs, fill out our Career Support Services Intake Form linked HERE to get connected with upcoming opportunities.