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Inclusive Trades

"Give Skilled Trades a Try: Pride Edition" is a vibrant and inclusive event that invites students to explore the skilled trades in a fun and engaging environment. Hosted by Skills Council of Canada, this unique gathering is designed to showcase the diverse opportunities within the trades, even for those who may not initially see themselves in this sector.

The event emphasizes the importance of job transitional skills and the sense of belonging that comes with being part of a community of like-minded individuals. By participating in hands-on activities and discussions centered around Pride themes, students can discover how the trades offer a place for everyone, regardless of their career aspirations.

"Give Skilled Trades a Try: Pride Edition" is more than just an exploration of career paths; it's an invitation to experience the trades in a way that celebrates diversity, creativity, and inclusivity.

Exploratory Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops that blend trade skills with Pride themes. From communication technology to hairstyling and hospitality, each session offers a unique perspective on the trades.

Career Exploration Panel: Engage with a diverse panel of trades professionals who will share their journey, insights, and advice for aspiring tradespeople, with a focus on inclusivity and diversity in the workforce.

Interactive Trade Fair: Wander through an interactive trade fair featuring booths from leading trades schools, companies, and apprenticeship programs. Gain firsthand information on education requirements, apprenticeship opportunities, and career prospects.

Networking Zone: Connect with industry professionals, educators, and fellow explorers in a dedicated networking zone. This is a golden opportunity to ask questions, seek mentorship, and build connections that could shape your future career.

Event Agenda

Event Agenda

  • 8:30 - 9:20 AM: Arrival and Welcome

Participants arrive and register. A time for networking and settling in before the event officially begins.

  • 9:30 - 10:30 AM: Session 1: Communication Technology

Introduction to branding and podcasting with a focus on Pride themes. Hands-on activity to create a Pride-inspired branding package.

  • 10:40 - 11:40 AM: Session 2: Hairstyling and Aesthetics

Overview of hairstyling and aesthetics with a rainbow twist. Hands-on activity with hair extensions and lash strip applications.

  • 11:50 - 12:20 PM: Lunch

A 30-minute break for lunch. Participants should bring their own lunch.

  • 12:30 - 1:30 PM: Session 3: Hospitality

Exploring the hospitality trade through Pride-themed cookie and cupcake decorating. Hands-on activity with edible decorations.

  • 1:40 - 2:40 PM: Info Session and Panel Discussion

Panel discussion with successful individuals in the skilled trades, Q&A session, and information on apprenticeship opportunities. Closing remarks.

Event Date:

May 8, 2024

Event Summary

This event is designed to be informative, interactive, and inspiring, encouraging participants to explore the diverse career paths available in the skilled trades sector. The Pride Edition adds a colorful twist, focusing on inclusivity and creativity in the trades.

Creative Design Skills:

  • Branding and Graphic Design: Participants will learn to use Adobe tools to create a branding package focused on Pride initiatives, enhancing their graphic design skills.
  • Artistic Expression: The activities will encourage creativity, particularly through the design of Pride flags and the use of color in various media.

Technical Skills:

  • Podcast Production: Students will gain hands-on experience in recording and editing audio, an essential skill in communication technology.
  • Hair Styling Techniques: Introduction to basic hairstyling techniques, including coloring and applying hair extensions.
  • Cosmetic Applications: Skills in applying and styling lash strips.

Culinary Arts:

  • Baking and Decorating: Participants will decorate cookies and cupcakes, learning about the culinary arts and the creativity involved in food presentation.

Interpersonal and Communication Skills:

  • Team Collaboration: Many activities will require participants to work in teams, fostering collaboration and teamwork.
  • Networking: Opportunities to interact with peers and professionals in the trades, building communication skills and professional networks.


Practical and Job-Ready Skills:

  • Safety and Hygiene Practices: Essential in both the hairstyling and culinary sessions, focusing on maintaining a safe and hygienic workspace.
  • Project Management: Through planning and executing their projects, students will touch on elements of project management.

Cultural Competency:

  • Inclusivity and Diversity Awareness: Through the integration of Pride themes, participants will engage with concepts of diversity and inclusivity, important for personal and professional growth in any field

Skilled Trades to Explore:

  • Cosmetology, Hospitality, Computer Tech/Design

Panel discussions

The day will include a panel of industry experts that will share their experiences, stories and have interactive conversations with attendees

Partners Supporting the Event

Special thanks to all our great funding, facility, and management partners for all their support for this event. Your efforts, leadership and ongoing support to our participants is truly appreciated

Event Activities

Participants will be engaged in both theory and hands on experiences designed to provide an interactive day of fun!

Communication Technology
Materials that will be used

Session 1: Communication Technology

  • Computers with Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for branding and graphic design tasks.
  • Audio Recording Equipment: Microphones, headphones, and audio editing software for podcast production.
  • Digital Cameras or Smartphones: For capturing photos or videos if required for digital media projects.
  • Software Licenses: Access to Adobe Creative Suite for graphic design and audio editing programs for podcasting.
  • Paper and Printing Materials: High-quality paper for printing branding materials and any visual aids.
  • Digital Storage: USB drives or access to cloud storage for saving digital work.

Design with Pride in Mind. Students will be able to create a branding package specifically around Pride initiatives. Using Adobe, students will be able to recreate the Pride Flag, Discuss and record a Podcast, and more.

Hairstyling and Aesthetics
Materials that will be used

Session 2: Hairstyling and Aesthetics

  • Hair Coloring Supplies: Hair dyes in various colors, particularly rainbow shades for Pride-themed styling.
  • Hair Extensions: Synthetic or natural hair extensions for coloring and styling practice.
  • Application Tools: Brushes, bowls, gloves, and aprons to apply hair color safely.
  • Lash Strips and Adhesives: Variety of lash strips and safe eyelash glue for lash applications.
  • Cosmetic Tools: Tweezers, mirrors, and other applicators for precise lash placement.
  • Hair Dyes: A range of vibrant, non-toxic hair dyes in rainbow colors.
  • Disposable Gloves and Aprons: To protect participants from chemicals and stains.
  • Hair Styling Accessories: Combs, brushes, clips, and blow dryers for styling.

Extensions and Lash Applications. Students will be colouring hair extensions with rainbow inspired colours. They will get to keep their hair extension creation afterwards. Students will also get to do lash strip applications.

Hairstyling and Aesthetics
Materials that will be used

Session 3: Hospitality (Culinary Arts)

  • Baking Tools: Mixing bowls, mixers, spatulas, measuring cups, and spoons.
  • Ovens and Baking Sheets: For baking cookies and cupcakes.
  • Decorating Supplies: Piping bags, various nozzles, edible glitter, colored icings, and decorative toppings like skittles.
  • Serving Supplies: Plates, napkins, and display stands for presenting the decorated desserts.
  • Edible Ingredients: Ready-made cookie and cupcake bases, various icings, edible glitter, and assorted toppings like skittles and colored sprinkles.
  • Decorating Tools: Cookie cutters, molds, and decorating pens for detailed work.
  • Packaging Materials: Boxes or bags for participants to take home their decorated desserts.

Pride Desserts! Cookie/Cupcake decorating. Students will have access to edible decorative ingredients that will help dress up their desserts before its consumption! Edible glitter, icing, skittles, and more to dress up your dessert anyway you like!

Try Our Skilled Trades - FAQs

Everything you need to know about the program.
What is the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?
The 'Try Our Skilled Trades' program is an initiative designed to introduce participants to the wide range of opportunities available in skilled trades. Focusing on practical, hands-on experiences, it aims to demystify trades careers and encourage more women to consider them as viable and fulfilling career options.
Who is eligible to participate in the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?
Participants can explore a variety of trades, including but not limited to carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), welding, Auto Service and more. Each event may offer different trade options based on availability and participant interest. Please review each event to determine which trade you would be interested in exploring. Each event will typically focus on 3 trades.
Do participants need any prior experience in trades to join the program?
No, participants do not need any prior experience. The program is designed to be an introductory experience, offering a supportive environment to learn and explore different trades.
How long is the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?
Program durations are typically structured as short, immersive experiences typically 1hr to 1.5hrs, allowing participants to get a tangible sense of each trade.
Is there a cost to participate in the program?
Most events under the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program are free to eligible participants. This initiative is part of Skills Council of Canada's commitment to making skills development accessible to all and funding is supported thanks to the Government of Ontario.
What will participants gain from attending the program?
Participants will gain hands-on experience, insights into various trades, and the opportunity to connect with professionals in the field. Additionally, the program aims to inspire confidence in pursuing trades as a career path.
Are there any support services available for participants after completing the program?
Yes, participants have access to career support mentors, further educational resources, and can be connected with employment opportunities through Skills Council of Canada's extensive network.
How can participants register for the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?
Interested individuals can register through the Skills Council of Canada website or contact our program coordinators directly for more information on upcoming events and availability.
Where are 'Try Our Skilled Trades' events held?
Events are held in Brampton Ontario, utilizing our 17 trade facility at Judith Nyman Secondary School. Locations and dates are periodically updated on our website to reflect the latest schedule.