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Funding for women and trades announced in Oakville by Julia Le Oakville Beaver Staff 7 | Thursday, February 13, 2014 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Julie Fros is a lone parent of four, lives in Hagersville, Ont., and never imagined she'd become a welder. "It is the best job I never imagined I would have," laughed Fros, who was on hand as Canada's Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women Kellie Leitch stopped in Oakville recently to announce funding to boost women in the Canadian construction industry. The minister was at the Ontario Sheet Metal Workers Training Centre on Sheridan Garden Drive to highlight $249,900 earmarked for the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC). The not-for-profit organization is dedicated to enhancing women's success in Canada's construction industry. More access and opportunity It is receiving the cash to provide women with more access and opportunity to be trained in skilled professional trades and to advance more women into leadership roles in construction and construction-related sectors in Ontario, Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador. "The project will see women collaborate with industry, government, and educational Minister of Labour/Status of Women Kellie Leitch, in centre, was in Oakville recently to announce funding to promote women in skilled professional trades and their advancement in those trades. | photo courtesy of Ministry of Labour/Status of Women Of the 48 per cent of women in the workforce now, fewer than 15 per cent are working in skilled professional trades, said the minister. CAWIC President Tammy Evans said the industry lacks women who stay in the profession and advance into decision-making roles. The organization will work with its partners to move the three-year project forward, said Evans. Skilled trade shortage in Canada "Canada has to listen because we have a skilled trade shortage, we have an untapped resource in women and we're going to make sure we put these two together with action," she said. Fros, who is in her third year of a welding apprenticeship, spoke about how her experience in a skilled professional trade has changed her life. She said she once didn't know what welding was and now she can't believe she is getting paid to do it. Fros said it's more than a job, it's a career and a certain future in which she can provide for her children. "It is definitely challenging to be a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated field, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges." institutions to plan and focus opportunities for the retention and advancement of women in skilled trades," Leitch said. "We know that amongst all professional trades, men and women enter into appren- ticeship, but not everyone graduates so making sure there's a program that allows individuals to enter and have that initial opportunity, but also to finish the program, is very important." Hair Design for Men and Women is pleased to welcome Laura. She brings over 15 years experience to our team. Thank you to Salon Monzer and my loyal Oakville clients for six wonderful years. I have developed many warm and lasting friendships which have helped me grow and develop during my many years as a professional hair stylist. I am excited to announce that I will be joining the fabulous team at Flavio's at Sherwood Forest in Mississauga, effective Feb. 11/14. As always, clients can reach me directly by telephone at 905 606 0598, Flavios Salon at +1 (905) 822-2706 or by email at laura.manco@yahoo. ca Don't forget to follow me on Facebook to view my latest designs Wishing you love, peace & happiness ThistleCreek Health Care Ltd. Seniors, you can maintain the quality of your life, right at home. Just customise the in-home care you need! WINNE 2013 R Reader's Choice 2013 Platinum Award Winner New Look for the New Year Come & get your ALSO AVAILABLE · Thermalionic Hair Straightening (ask for Maureen) · Weave & Bonded Extensions (ask for Rachel) Come in for a FREE consultation $ *with this coupon. Expires March 31/14. 10 Laura Manco~ OFF ThistleCreek Professionals include: Personal Assistants Personal Support Workers Companions Registered Nurses any Service with Laura PROUDLY SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR 32 YEARS! Mon & Tue 9am - 5pm Wed to Fri 9am - 7pm Saturday 8am - 3:30pm Sherwood Forrest Village 1900 Dundas St. West, Mississauga, ON We also offer 1 hour services! www.thistlecreekhealthcare.ca 905-822-2690 905-582-9519