Edmonton, AB – March 8, 2024 – OpenCircle, a Canadian not-for-profit association that supports businesses in construction and related industries across Canada, commends the federal government’s announcement of more than $28.9 million investment in 15 projects aimed at supporting an estimated 6,400 women entering the skilled trades workforce. The initiatives, announced by Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, Randy Boissonnault, on the eve of International Women’s Day, are designed to assist women in exploring, preparing for, and succeeding in the skilled trades.

“Skilled trades offer a rewarding career and are an integral part of industries across Canada,” said Line Porfon, OpenCircle CEO. “However, we continue to face a critical shortage of talent. We firmly believe that by actively recruiting, training, and mentoring women in the skilled trades, we can bolster Canada’s pool of skilled tradespeople while simultaneously fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce.”

OpenCircle provides world-class training opportunities and programs, coupled with an industry leading benefit plan uniquely tailored to the needs of those working in the skilled trades. Through OpenCircle’s Learning Centre, a number of educational courses are designed to enhance career development opportunities for individuals and improve the performance of construction companies and, ultimately, the industry.

“At OpenCircle, we are committed to providing exceptional and innovative solutions to our Member companies and their employees,” added Porfon. “Our all-new redesigned Learning portal has been redesigned to enhance and benefit our Member’s journey with the association.”

OpenCircle remains committed to collaborating with Member companies to champion the interests of those working in the skilled trades. As Canada continues to navigate evolving workforce dynamics, initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusivity within the skilled trades are essential to ensuring the long-term prosperity of the industry.

For more information about OpenCircle and its initiatives, please visit opencircle.ca.