Investment of up to $1.18 million in training program helping women in Burlington enter the skilled trades

BURLINGTON – The Ontario government is investing up to $1.18 million over three years through the Women’s Economic Security Program to support the Centre for Skills Development’s Enhanced General Carpentry training program for low-income women in Burlington.

This funding is part of the government’s investment of up to $26.7 million over three years in 25 local programs across the province that provide career training opportunities for women, helping them gain the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to find a job, start a business and achieve financial independence.

“The Women’s Economic Security Program empowers women to achieve financial independence by breaking down barriers to career training opportunities,” said Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity. “I’m proud of our government’s continued support for local, community-based training programs that help women across the province reach their full potential and achieve the career success they deserve.”

The Women’s Economic Security Program offers training in four streams: skilled trades, entrepreneurship, information technology, and general employment. To help remove barriers to participating, the training programs also include additional supports such as providing meals throughout the training day, transportation to and from training, and support finding child care.

Through the training program, women who have experienced or are at risk of intimate partner violence can also access wraparound supports, including referrals to mental health and well-being supports, counselling, housing, and legal support.

Women interested in the program can visit Ontario.ca/women.

“Ontario is taking a government-wide approach to address and prevent gender-based violence and support women’s economic empowerment,” said Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services. “Through the Women’s Economic Security Program, we are helping women access in-demand careers, achieve financial independence and succeed in sectors that are vital to the economy.”

This investment is part of Ontario’s four-year action plan to prevent and address gender-based violence. In addition to the province’s $15 million investment over three years in the Women’s Economic Security Program, Ontario is providing up to another $11.7 million through the bilateral agreement with the federal government on the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence.

Quick Facts

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"When women have equal opportunities in the workforce, economies thrive. We need more women in non-traditional fields, like carpentry, because when women are in these workforces it not only promotes gender equality but also drives economic growth and innovation. I’m proud that the investments from the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence will benefit the Centre for Skills Development’s Enhanced General Carpentry training program. Empowering women in these sectors unlocks untapped potential, leading to a more diverse and prosperous workforce in Burlington and beyond."

- The Honourable Marci Ien
Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

"This investment in the Centre for Skills Development is fantastic news for women entering careers in the skilled trades. The Enhanced General Carpentry training will empower women with the knowledge and skills they need, allowing them to gain confidence and financial success, while earning experience that will support Ontario’s housing strategy and economic development."

- Natalie Pierre
MPP, Burlington

"Women’s economic security is vital for building stronger communities. The Women’s Economic Security Program empowers women by providing the skills and support they need to overcome barriers and achieve financial independence. Through initiatives like WESP, we are creating opportunities for women to fully participate in the workforce and lead economically stable lives, helping to ensure a brighter future for everyone in Ontario."

- Effie Triantafilopoulos
MPP, Oakville North—Burlington

"The Women in Skilled Trades program at Centre for Skills Development empowers women to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields. By providing comprehensive hands-on training, mentorship, and support, the program opens doors to rewarding careers in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. Participants gain hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed. This program not only addresses the gender gap in skilled trades but also contributes to a more diverse and inclusive workforce, fostering economic growth and innovation and empowering women to achieve financial independence and professional success in skilled trades."

- Lisa Rizzato
CEO, Centre for Skills Development