The skilled trades industry is evolving, and Indigenous women are playing a crucial role in that transformation. Across Canada, women make up only 4% of the construction trade workforce, with even lower representation in other skilled trades. But that number is changing, and Trade Winds to Success is proud to be part of the movement empowering Indigenous women to step into these rewarding, high-demand careers.
PIPE TRADES STUDENT
“I wanted to build a better future for myself and Trade Winds seemed like the perfect opportunity for that. Even if you don’t ask for help, the instructors will come to you and ensure you get everything you need.”
Whitecloud Saddleback
Why Indigenous Women in Trades Matter
The construction and skilled trades sectors are facing a growing shortage
of skilled workers. By increasing the participation of women—especially Indigenous women—in these fields, we are not only addressing industry demand but also opening doors to financial independence, economic growth, and long-term career stability.
Opportunities for Indigenous Women through Trade Winds to Success
Trade Winds to Success is an Alberta-based training program designed to support Indigenous people in pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Our comprehensive training and apprenticeship pathways provide Indigenous women with the knowledge, hands-on experience, and mentorship needed to succeed as carpenters, electricians, welders, and more.
We believe that every woman deserves the opportunity to build a future she can be proud of, and our program helps remove barriers by offering:
Hands-on Training: Real-world experience in high- demand trades.
Financial and Personal Support: Assistance with essential tools, training costs, and career guidance.
Mentorship and Community: A network of Indigenous women and industry professionals who support and uplift each other.
Employment Pathways: Direct connections to apprenticeships and job opportunities in the trades sector.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Indigenous women in our program are not just learning a trade—they’re reshaping the industry. They are proving that skilled trades are not just for men, and they are becoming role models in their communities, inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.
These success stories highlight resilience, empowerment, and the growing presence of Indigenous women in trades—an industry that desperately needs their skills, talent, and leadership. Their journeys demonstrate the strength and determination it takes to overcome barriers and thrive in careers that provide stability, fulfillment, and financial security.
“Learning all the tools, machines and being hands-on is what actually makes me happy. I love learning something new every day. Right now, I’m the only lady here at the millwright program, and most of the people who were millwrights were really big and looked so strong, I thought that maybe I wouldn’t be able to do it, but everyone is so nice and always give a heping hand. All you have to do is show interest and you’ll learn.”
Melveena Okemow
Millwright Student
“I was out of work and looking for a career change. I really like the Indigenous component to Trade Winds training. I hope to get experience in commercial and residential, and progress through my apprenticeship.”
Mandi Grimard
Electrical Student
Ladaria Scott
WELDING STUDENT
"Being able to attend Trade Winds to Success Pre-apprentice first-ever Welder program is a long-waited blessing and I am so greatly appreciative of. I would definitely recommend to any person who wants to join the trades. This program helped me finally get my foot in the door as I plan on becoming a Red Seal recognized Journeyman Welder!"
Agathe-Mae Steinhauer
CARPENTER APPRENTICE
"Trade Winds to Success has helped me learn new things about myself that I never knew, they’ve shown me that I’m capable of anything I put my mind to and that I actually know how to swing a hammer! The program gave us the academic skills and basic knowledge to the carpentry trade, they also gave us the hands-on training. I graduated the program and was hired on as a first year carpenter apprentice with PME. I’ve been working full time now and I couldn’t be any more happier with the career choice!"
Shaniya Twin
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION GRADUATE
"Trade winds has really helped me. I am very grateful for the experience I have gained in such short time. I never been more motivated to keep going."
Roxy Mitchell
ELECTRICAL GRADUATE
"Trade Winds gave me the courage to come out of my shell throughout my time there. I was determined to finish and persevered to the end, successfully completing the program. I believe being an Indigenous woman in the trades, I am constantly overlooked, but there are the people who see what I am capable of bringing to the table which gives me the push to keep on going. We as women are strong and it’s not scary being that woman on site. You are paving the way for generations to follow, making it easier for your fellow sisters."
Tiffany Wapass
WELDING APPRENTICE
"The most rewarding part was getting that blue book and watching my confidence skyrocket. I realized my potential while in the program. I was excited for the future. I have a really great career ahead of me and wouldn’t change it for the world. This experience made me realize what I am capable of. I do recommend this program to everyone. If you’re ready to make a change in your life and you are serious about the change."
Starla Jacknife
FINISHING CARPENTER
"Trade Winds absolutely helped me in my career. There is such a family-type feeling at Tradewinds. You know they’re rooting for you."
Lisa Fitzsimmons
STEAMFITTER APPRENTICE
"My biggest challenge was getting into the trades in general. It was more difficult to get into the trades as a woman and being Indigenous. This awesome program has opened doors, opportunities, and has given me the confidence to face my journey of adversity. I would definitely encourage other Indigenous individuals to apply for this well supported program. Trades Winds to Success has given me a new direction, a career and supported me to continue my journey."
Shinea Small
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION GRADUATE
"Carpentry has always been a goal, but I never had the confidence nor the knowledge of the process to pursue that dream. I aspire to challenge myself to become a Red Seal Journeyman in Carpentry. There are no real limits and ideally, I’d like to go as far as I possibly can. Regardless, I will be challenging stereotypes as an Indigenous, single-mother in a male dominant industry. It is not based on who you are, where you come from – all that matters is how hard you work and how you apply yourself as an individual."
Melissa McDonald
PRE-APPRENTICE ELECTRICAL GRADUATE
"I loved shop training and learning the hands-on skills. It certainly confirmed that I wanted to become an electrician. Through theory and shop training, I felt like I had what it takes to do electrical. All of Trade Winds supported me throughout the program, I wouldn’t have completed if they hadn’t kept pushing me. Don’t listen to others about what you should do with your life, follow your instincts and dreams!"
Chelsey Ferguson
STUDENT
"This program is very important to me. I wanted to get into the trades but I didn’t know where to start. As soon as you walk through the door it feels very familiar. It’s kind of magical!"
Andrea Osborne
JOURNEYPERSON MILLWRIGHT
"I was visiting the band office at my boyfriend’s reserve to apply for welfare when I saw a pamphlet from Trade Winds to Success. I got in touch, and started with pre-apprenticeship training. I graduated top of my class."
Supported Every Step of the Way
At Trade Winds to Success, we recognize that support goes beyond the classroom. Our dedicated staff—many of whom are women—work tirelessly to create an inclusive, encouraging environment where Indigenous women can thrive.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Shannon McCarthy
"As a female Executive Director, I take pride in being a visible example of what’s possible for students, particularly young women. By showing them that a woman can lead, make an impact, and break through barriers, I hope to inspire them to see that they too can reach those heights. My work is about opening doors and showing students, especially girls, that they have a seat at the table and the potential to shape their own futures."
PROGRAM MANAGER
Carol Lee
"I work to ensure that Trade Winds offers effective and culturally appropriate training. Students who previously were unable to start an apprenticeship have gained confidence, developed new skills, and know that they are supported in their career."
PROGRAM ASSISTANT
Lisper Picoto
"As a female staff member at Trade Winds, I am one of the first points of contact for students. Many are nervous about assessments or personal challenges, but I encourage them every step of the way. Their success is my success."
FUND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Nike Fabiyi
"My work helps create partnerships and enhance programs through financial support—ultimately providing access to opportunities that may not otherwise be available. It’s rewarding to know that I play a small part in uplifting our women knowing that they will one day have an opportunity to do the same."
PURCHASING/FINANCE CLERK
Priscilla Hidalgo
"When we see women succeeding, we feel empowered knowing we are making a difference. Never stop believing in your dreams—work hard, and one day you will become a role model for future generations."
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Maxine Leiber
"Trade Winds staff help to break down barriers and open up opportunities for students by creating a safe and encouraging environment that allows the building of positive relationships inside and outside of our programs."
Join the Movement
Trade Winds to Success is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the skilled trades. We are working with industry partners, Indigenous organizations, and businesses to ensure more women have access to the training and opportunities they deserve.
If you’re an Indigenous woman looking for a pathway into the trades or an organization interested in supporting this movement, we invite you to connect with us. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive workforce—one where Indigenous women are leading the way.
