CAWIC launches women’s advancement in construction project in Calgary

The Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) has launched its Women’s Advancement Project in Calgary, Alta.

Earlier this year CAWIC received a $249,900 grant from the Government of Canada through Status of Women Canada. CAWIC is using the money for a three-year project to conduct research and develop, with industry employers and female participants, an action plan to increase women’s entry, retention and advancement into leadership roles within the construction industry.

CAWIC is now looking for construction industry partners in Alberta, Ontario or Newfoundland/Labrador.

“It is time to stop talking about the challenges in our industry in a fractured way. We need action. Stakeholders must work together to make meaningful changes happen now,” said CAWIC’s director, Tammy Evans.

Mark Alton, workforce manager, Southern Alberta, PCL Builders Inc., said the company is excited to participate in this important project. “We have representatives acting as employer partners in Alberta and Ontario, and we encourage other construction firms and employees to get involved.”

The Progressive Contractor’s Association (PCA) is also partnering with the Government of Canada and CAWIC to promote advancing women in construction.

“CAWIC’s goal of providing workplace and career-specific tools to guide and support women in construction will help to attract more women into the industry, and thus strengthen Canada’s labour supply,” said Paul de Jong, PCA’s executive director. “PCA looks forward to working with partners and industry leaders to increase the role that women play in the construction industry.”