Empowering Women in Trades: Win Tools and Swag sponsored by IDEAL Tools!

As we celebrated International Women's Day on March 8, 2025, we’re working to help accelerate action for gender equality throughout the month, year, and into the future. We acknowledge the important contributions women working in the trades make every day, including in the electrical industry. Let’s look at how having the right tools in your toolbox, and honing your practical skills with training, sets you up for success.

While only 7% of Canada’s skilled trades workers in 2022 were women, demand for skilled tradespeople remains high. Reasons for the scarcity of female electrical contractors vary, but with training and supportive resources, women can build rewarding careers in the trades. Different provinces offer resources, such as these by WorkBC, and training programs to get women started in trades. Discover more trades programs on the SkilledTradesBC website.

For female high school students, BCIT, Okanagan College, Northern Alberta School of Technology, and other schools offer Jill of All Trades—a fun-filled day of practical, in-the-shop sessions to inspire them to pursue careers in the skilled trades. Participants explore multiple trades and are introduced to the flexibility and freedom these lucrative careers offer. Jill of All Trades includes a behind-the-scenes look at a participating school’s facilities, interaction with industry professionals, and workshops featuring various disciplines. Cross-training in various trades ensures more opportunities for women to diversify their skills.

Explore more resources and training opportunities for women who want to enter the skilled trades in the Western Canadian provinces we serve. There are likely more resources than listed here, so be sure to check online for more where you live.

B.C.

• BCIT: Trades Discovery programs 
• WorkBC: Women in Trades Training
• Skills for Change: Women in Skilled Trades Program
• Thompson Rivers University: Women in Trades Training Exploratory Program
• Camosun College: Women in Trades Training

In addition, WorkBC, the BC Centre for Women in the Trades, and SkilledTradesBC offer resources for women including funding information, job search assistance, and mentorship programs.

Alberta

• Women Building Futures: Journey to Trades Program
• Southern Alberta Institute of Technology: Women in Trades and Technology Program
• Building Trades of Alberta: Build Together
• The new Office to Advance Women Apprentices (opened in 2024)
• Careers: Young Women in Trades & Technologies

Saskatchewan

• Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission: Women in Trades
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic: Women in Trades and Technology Program
• Women Building Futures: Saskatchewan resources
• Office to Advance Women Apprentices: Supporting Women in Skilled Trades (Prairie Office)
• YWCA Saskatoon: Trade Journey—A Woman’s Program

Whether you’re new to the electrical industry or a veteran, gearing up with the right tools—including those by IDEAL Industries—set you up for success. IDEAL’s tools—such as these reliable wire connectors—empower you to tackle any project with ease, confidence, and precision. Check out IDEAL’s Contractors’ Guide to Wire Connectors for more top-quality options.

Need to stay organized on the job? This IDEAL Tuff-Tote 12-piece apprentice electrician’s tool kit with black leather pouch and shoulder strap is perfect for the job site. 

Thank you to everyone who entered the contest and congratulations to the winners!

Enter our contest by filling out the form below to win one of four great prizes, including IDEAL connectors or EB Horsman swag. Don’t miss your chance to win!

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned tradesperson, we want to celebrate your accomplishments and continue advocating for women in the electrical industry and all the skilled trades. Have questions about electrical products or how we can support you? Reach out to our helpful team today!