British Columbia is investing $750,000 in both a women-in-trades mentorship program and to improve skill development for all apprentices in B.C.’s construction sector.

A $400,000 boost for women’s mentorship comes in direct response to a meeting held last year where members from various building trades met with the government to discuss challenges women face in the industry.

“When you are on a jobsite and there are hundreds of guys, but you are the only woman it can be overwhelming,” said Lisa Langevin, co-chair, IBEW 213 Women’s Committee and BC IBEW Women’s Committee. “This program will help level that playing field by providing women with the network and resources they need to be successful in these great paying careers.”

The program, a joint effort from SkillPlan, the Canadian Building Trades Union, Building Together – Women in the Building Trades, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, will identify much-needed support services as stats reveal about 3,964 registered women apprentices in the province across 72 different trades, a much lower percentage than male apprentices.

Another government partnership with the Electrical Joint Training Committee will add an additional $350,000 to improve mentorship and skill development for all apprentices in B.C.’s construction sector.

About one million job openings are expected in B.C. by 2024.