Congratulations to our Muskoka’s Woman in Construction,

Jacqui Kramer, Project Manager,

a trailblazer with over 30 years in building roads in Muskoka and beyond. Jacqui will be recognized at the YWCA Muskoka Women of Distinction Awards.

We thank and congratulate everyone nominated.

Thank you to our sponsors above for supporting the Women in Construction Workforce Development Project. Nominations are now closed as of 10pm January 11. It’s time to meet…

MEET MUSKOKA’S WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

These women have been nominated for Muskoka’s Woman in Construction Award to be decided in February and awarded on March 8, 2025 at the YWCA Muskoka Women of Distinction Awards at Hidden Valley Resort, Huntsville. We are honoured to be included in the YWCA’s big night!

DO WE HAVE YOUR NOMINEE HERE? If we’re missing someone, we want to know. If we’ve missed a nomination that came in before the Jan. 11 deadline, Please email norah@muskokalakechamber.ca

Patti Blundell | Meredith Boddington | Melissa Boken | Mack Brown | Alishia Belfour | Natalie Bennie | Jamie Bosworth | Alisha Cattelana | Shelly Dunlop | Jake Goselin } Lisa Goyea | Billie Marie Hewitt | Alex Hymers | Jacqui Kramer | Charma Lippert | Jasmine McMahon | Simone Marsden | Tetiana Kabanenko | Crystal Nguyen | Wenda Orchard | Stacy Prokopec | Margo Reville | Megan Roberts | Victoria Saunders | Samantha Snow | Desiree Tamminga | Sandra Tracey

In no particular order, please meet:

STACY PROKOPEC, GENERAL CONSTRUCTION/DECKING

Stacy entered into construction in the year 2010 working for AF Construction and Dec-K-ing. She started with little knowledge of the trades and worked diligently for the next eleven years. Her experience includes residential framing, siding, roofing, aluminum railing systems, vinyl membrane, log homes and structural insulated panel buildings. She traveled from GTA to James Bay being committed to her work. Stacy came into the trades at a time when there were very few women, and she became a motivating factor for other contractors to hire female employees. In 2022 she started her company Maple Construction Inc. where she added entrepreneur and businesswoman to her repertoire of experience. VOLUNTEER: Stacy has been a volunteer firefighter for nine years with Lake of Bays fire department and is currently a member of The Muskoka builders Association. She has volunteered on a build for Habitat For Humanity in Bracebridge.

LISA GOYEA, CONCRETE WET CASTER/ASSISTANT MANAGER, BROOKLIN CONCRETE

At Brooklin Concrete very few people see the items produced every day as they most often are buried essentials such as Septics tanks, Hydro vaults, and pole light boxes, etc. They are the items that allow homes of any size or quality to function.

As the only woman in a team of men in our plant, Lisa has earned their respect and keeps them on track. Lisa has worked her way up from Wet Caster to Quality and Receiver to Assistant Manager – all while keeping a smile most days. It is a dirty, sometimes hot, sometimes very cold job that requires a keen eye, strength and understanding of why items must be produced to the best quality. She is always here, always available to everyone and when she is not in the plant working right along with the rest of the team, She is out in the yard doing quality checks, etc. It is hard to put into words the work done at Brooklin as wet casting is not something done everywhere in our area. Steel molds, mesh forming, rebar etc. And then those of us in this wet cast world have our items buried without the ability to show the world our work. I know the job; I have done the job; and she does it well and deserves to be recognized for all she does. Muskoka may not be able to see the product afterwards, but Muskoka can acknowledge one of the great ladies making a difference to every Septic & Electrical contractor in our area and beyond.

MEGAN ROBERTS, METAL FABRICATOR/ROOFER, MUSKOKA ROOFING COMPANY

Megan has been an employee at Muskoka Roofing Company for three years. In a predominantly male industry, Megan has thrived in her position with us.

Starting out as a standing seam labourer on job sites, Megan has caught on very quickly and persevered through Muskoka’s harsh outdoor elements to continue her education on metal work with a hands on approach.

Megan now runs the custom metal shop, Made In Metal (on Ecclestone Drive, Bracebridge) making metal flashings for roofing, windows, doors and more. Her continued growth and effort deserve to be recognized!

Megan is an inspiration to women who want to step into a man’s world and learn the roofing trade.

MACK BROWN, HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, DISTRICT OF MUSKOKA

Mack Brown Crushing it for the District of Muskoka

Mack is a young woman dominating a male-dominated industry at the District; She exudes confidence, determination and work ethic, all which maintaining a bubbly personality. Having just received her 5-year award when asked to reflect on her time here, her Manager noted that Mack started as a Seasonal Labourer and was immediately a good and easy fit with the team. In 2021 she accepted a temporary role as the Waste Operations Maintenance Assistant where she was introduced to small equipment such as skidsteers. She quickly progressed to larger machines. In March 2021, Mack enrolled herself (out of her own pocket) in the AZ Truck Driver license course, which she knew she needed if she wanted to obtain full-time employment as an Equipment Operator (EO). She progressed quickly up the chain and accepted the EO role in July of 2021 with a stipulation that the AZ course had to be completed within 6 months. In true Mack form, the course was completed within ONE month and hasn’t since looked back. Mack is amazing!

SANDRA TRACEY, QUARRY OPERATIONS MANAGER, BRENT QUARRIES

Sandra Tracey, Quarry Operations Manager

SAMANTHA SNOW, CONCRETE PUMP Owner/Operator

Samantha Snow

Sam is an inspiration to all women in the industry.

She owns a concrete pumping company along side her husband and works tirelessly day in and out lugging line and getting the job done all with a smile on her face and a bright personality.

Sam brings out the best in others and is always striving to help others and make people smile.

WENDA ORCHARD, Roads Services Supervisor – District of Muskoka

Wenda recently celebrated 20 years with the District of Muskoka and has become an integral part in keeping roadways safe year-round for our Muskoka community. Wenda began her tenure with the District in the Facilities and Community Services Department as a custodian after which time she progressed to the role of Road Patrol Person within Engineering and Public Works. Given the busy summers and long winters in Muskoka, the Road Patrol Person is an invaluable member of the District team and helps keep our roads maintained and safe for the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Wenda’s commitment to the construction and trades industry has been proven by her around the clock dedication when inspecting and administrating complex contracts for winter control and road maintenance. Both of these activities are aimed at keeping District roadways safely maintained for all of those who depend on them. She has also been an important communication link between the District and the six Area Municipalities to ensure that maintenance efforts are completed efficiently and within regulatory timelines.

Wenda Orchard, Road Services Supervisor

More recently, Wenda has shown her commitment to mentoring and leadership by successfully becoming the District’s Road Services Supervisor. This role is responsible for supervising and leading the efforts of all Roads Patrol and Maintenance Inspection staff within the Engineering and Public Works Department. Her commitment to personal and professional development has also been demonstrated when she obtained her Certified Technician designation through OACETT. This has helped further her career and professional development within the public works and construction industry and sets and example for all members of the civil trades industry on what can be achieved with dedication and hard work.

During her time at the District, Wenda has demonstrated the personality and leadership skills required to handle construction challenges, large-scale emergencies (such as floods) as well as proven her ability to understand and respect the perspectives of those around her including both her coworkers and members of the public.

MARGO REVILLE, CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATOR, MAZENGA

Margo grew up in Muskoka. She left to pursue further education in Social Work as her professional career. After exploring life outside of Muskoka, she had the yearning to return to her hometown in Muskoka and decided to make a career change. Upon her return, Margo started her career in the Construction Industry with Patty Mac Inc, as an Accounts Payable/Office Administrator. After learning and gaining knowledge in construction as an Accounts Payable/Office Administrator, she wanted more challenges in the Construction Industry. She applied for and was hired at Mazenga Building Group located in Port Carling as a Construction Estimator. From hands learning to taking Continuing Education Program at George Brown (Construction Estimating Courses), the company has trusted her with large waterfront projects. Margo confidently works with the owners and co-workers learning and becoming familiar with drawings/designs, material takeoffs, obtaining quotes from trades, creating budgets, and issuing contracts to awarded trades to create a seamless build for her clients. She is keen and diligent at her work place, she finds her position is challenging and when the job is complete very rewarding.

Though Margo has not been in the trades for long, she is always seeking more opportunities to help improve her skillset by continuing her education. She uses her time wisely and is productive, as she is great with her communicational skills verbally and non-verbally. She is very humble, hungry and smart. Looking forward to what the future holds her!

VICTORIA SAUNDERS, HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, WES FINCH & SONS

In the words of her nominator: Victoria shows on time and pays attention. She follows directions and takes criticism well. Keeps her vehicle clean, is pleasant to work with and looks professional. In terms of skills, she has grown a lot and she offers to help whenever she sees a need. She is a team player and is very engaging. She is very polite to customers, # 1. In terms of leadership, she set a great example for other staff in the company.

CRYSTAL NGUYEN, CABINET MAKER, SELF EMPLOYED at Above Board Cabinet Co.

Crystal Nguyen, Cabinet Maker

JASMINE MCMAHON, PAINTER/ROOFER, MUSKOKAWISE PAINTING & ROOFING

Jasmine started to build her business MuskokaWise Painting & Roofing Co. 2 years ago. She has been an inspiration to me and many other women in our circle and the community moreso than she is even aware of. She provides amazing service to her clients and keeps building relationships with them long after her work is done. She takes care of her employees, her friends, her family, and everyone in her life. I know she deserves this opportunity, seeing how far she has come and all the hard work she has, and is, putting into achieving her goals and dreams.

I’m excited to see her have the chance to accept this award so she can have a little reminder of the gratitude we all feel for the energy she puts into those in her life and her business.

DESIREE TAMMINGA, Carpenter’s Apprentice, Tekton Custom Carpentry & Woodworking

Desiree is a trailblazing First Nations woman in carpentry, a field historically dominated by men. With determination, passion, and a strong work ethic, she has proven that success in this trade knows no gender or background. A fast learner, Desiree has quickly mastered the technical skills needed to excel, from using new tools to understanding complex blueprints. Her ability to easily grasp new concepts and techniques sets her apart from many peers.

What truly distinguishes Desiree is her fearless approach to challenges. She embraces difficult projects and unfamiliar tasks with confidence, eager to learn and grow. This courage not only drives her own success but also inspires those around her to push their boundaries and take on seemingly intimidating tasks. Her resilience and adaptability have made her an invaluable team member, enabling the crew to tackle complex jobs with confidence.

Beyond her technical expertise, Desiree brings a contagious energy to the workplace. Her passion for carpentry is evident in everything she does, and she approaches each project with enthusiasm and dedication. As both a skilled tradeswoman and a source of positive energy, Desiree helps foster a team environment that feels more like a family. Whether sharing a joke, offering encouragement, or lending a hand, her uplifting spirit has a profound impact on team morale and cohesion.

As a proud First Nations woman, Desiree is breaking barriers in a male-dominated field while honouring her heritage. Her cultural identity shapes her work ethic and values, including resilience, respect, and the importance of community. As a respected member of her team, Desiree proves daily that women—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her trailblazing attitude, skill, passion, and leadership set a powerful example for others, showing that there are no limits to what women can achieve in carpentry and beyond.

ALEX HYMERS, PAINTER, A&J PAINTING

Alex Hymers, Painter

Alex Hymers is a fantastic human being and skilled painter, decorator, handywoman and communicator. She and her husband, for many years have run a successful and respected painting and contracting business, and have employed many skilled and wonderful young staff from Muskoka. Alex is friendly and compassionate, and is a stickler for detail and getting the job done right and efficiently. She and her business partner Jeremy leave the worksite clean and tidy at the end of every work day and consistently arrive as planned. Alex effectively communicates next steps in the painting and contracting plan so that clients know what expect each day, including expected timelines for each step. Alex is creative and insightful, but also practical in her painting and contracting advice and achieves just the right balance for her clients, who vary widely in socioeconomic status and needs. She is a true gem and bright light. I have referred many friends and family members to Alex over the past 10 years and all say similar things. In addition to her busy, active job, Alex is active in helping elders with appointments and generously and compassionately spends her free time helping elderly friends with caregiving duties and respite care. For many years, Alex has also organized a sizeable Shoebox gathering every December, to prepare boxed gifts for women in need, including donation of needed supplies.

JAKE GOSELIN, OWNER/OPERATOR, BESPOKE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Jake, the Owner-Operator of Bespoke Property Management, received two nominations and this is what her nominators had to say:

Jake Goselin has carved her path in the male-dominated world of trades. She walks with a robust foundation in extensive training and years of hands-on experience. Jake’s approachable, friendly demeanor layered with her professional operations sets her in a league of her own. Catering to luxury clients, she stands out by her attention to the minutest details of their property needs. Being among only a few women in trades, Jake isn’t just on par with her industry counterparts but a step above. She has carefully nurtured an extensive network of skilled tradespeople, all of whom are eager to work alongside her. A testament to her competence, professionalism, and leadership.

Resting on her current skills isn’t in Jake’s nature; she is always willing to go the extra mile to learn, grow, and break new boundaries within the contractor world. Her hard-working, committed approach has not only fostered respect among her peers and clients but made her a profound role model for her 2 young boys who look up to her.

Therefore, I am thrilled to nominate Jake Goselin for the ‘Women in Trades’ – a woman committed to excellence and constant growth, who leads by example and embodies the spirit of this honour.

Now, in the words of Sara McRae, who also nominated Jake:

Jake owns and operates Bespoke Property Management and is responsible for over $250M of property in Muskoka. She strives to assist property owners so they may freely enjoy their summer getaways without having to worry about the overwhelming tasks that are involved with owning prestige properties. Property Management requires someone to have basic knowledge in every avenue of the construction industry: carpentry, HVAC, landscaping, pool and spa management, plumbing etc. When she’s not overseeing things like spas being craned over cottages, driveways being paved or generators being installed, Jake is sweating through lawn care in the peak of summer, blowing mountains of leaves off properties in the fall or installing bubblers in the winter.

Jake also spends large portions of her days in meetings with sub-trades and is required to relay that information, in lay-woman’s terms, back to clients after the meeting to ensure everyone is on the same page and the various projects are moving forward. With having a decades’ worth of experience in the industry, Jake is able to proactively mitigate major problems before they arise. Working in a male dominant industry comes with its own set of challenges and Jake has been through enough to warrant a change in pace, for most. Yet she’s embraced the challenges set before her with grace; not once wavering from her commitment to her partnerships with sub-trades. Jake continues to persevere daily – always finding solutions, creating goals, making plans to learn, grow and lead a team of women in effort to grow individually and collectively with her team. She not only has a keen eye for details for the properties BPM looks after, but she also fosters and models professionalism in her relationships with all stakeholders. For lack of a better term, she’s a ’Jill-Of-All Trades’ who strongly advocates for women to enter the construction industry through Property Management by employing only women through her female-run company. She is well respected within the industry she works. Jake deserves the opportunity to be considered for this award!

MEREDITH BODDINGTON, HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, FOWLER

As a woman in construction Meredith has had to prove herself ever step of the way. Working in construction for 15 years she still has the daily struggles to over come as a woman in construction, still having to prove herself on a daily basis. We need more women in construction and people like Meredith are leading the way and showing us the yes in fact females do belong in the work force and play a role in construction.

JAMIE BOSWORTH, CONSTRUCTION LOADER-OPERATOR, HUTCHESON SAND AND MIXES

In the words of her nominator:: Jamie is an exemplary employee who is dependable, trustworthy and always up to the task.

MELISSA BOKEN, PLUMBER & OWNER, KAHSHE MECHANICAL

Melissa Boken started her plumbing business on her own in 2011 and expanded to add HVAC in 2015 with her husband joining in to help. Melissa was nominated twice. In the words of her first nominator: Melissa started a trades business while building her own home (and more since then too), raising two fabulous sons, volunteering in her community and mentorin other trades people as they come up in the world. Melissa has strong moral fiber, conscious leadership and a strong family foundation – she has led her team to providing excellent service at affordable rates and continues to innovate and grow to the best good of all on her team and in her community around her. Melissa doesn’t complain and gives all of this from a full heart, never seeking recognition, but we’d love to see her noticed for her good heart and great work.

Melissa volunteers more than I know and am privy to, but I have witnessed her strong efforts to support the Ryde Community CoOp – The Ryde Community Co-op is a community hub like no other. Located on five acres in rural Ryde at 1624 Barkway Road. “Powered by Volunteers” and “Fueled by Community”, this former two room public school has been transformed. We have “raised the roof”, we have a Green Card kitchen and now boast a fully accessible live log outdoor pavilion. We are looking forward to multigenerational, inclusive programs and events that enrich lives. It is people who define community. It is “us”, “we” and “you”. Come and see for yourself at the “Little Building with a Big Heart”. Become a member and make that community connection. Melissa and her family (yes, she has fostered this in multiple generations, and you see her with her WHOLE FAMILY there happily volunteering!) regularly support the CoOp Community Centre in a variety of ways – and her company Kahshe Mechanical provides services as well.

Melissa received this second nomination: Melissa has owned Kahshe Mechanical Inc. for over 13 years. She’s a highly respected plumber within her community and Muskoka. She attended George Brown College and apprenticed with Glen Pearson Plumbing Services Inc. Melissa encourages and fosters an inclusive employment and apprenticeship trades environment. This includes Sara who is now apprenticing with her and she’s been a panelist at the YMCA career day for Gravenhurst High School students about trades opportunities. Melissa juggles an active family life with husband Brian and sons Aksel and Gus while operating a successful business and volunteering in her community of Ryde. She volunteers with Ryde Community Co-op Inc to run family events and programs; assists with installation and maintenance of the community skating rink; and their plumbing needs. She also volunteers with South Muskoka Minor Hockey as volunteer manager of her son’s U13 team and her business annually sponsors multiple minor hockey teams plus she’s the team manager of the Mother Tuckers baseball. At Beechgrove Public School she volunteers to chaperone for trips; and Reading Buddy Programs.

On a personal note, I have known Melissa for several years. She took on a project for me that required some plumbing finesse. She listened, assessed the job in her quiet, professional, calm way and got the job done. She is very hard working, knowledgeable, caring and fair in what she does. I am impressed that she always turns up to volunteer for tasks/jobs at the Ryde Community Centre. There are many adjectives that could be used for Melissa.

Patti Blundell, Manager, GB Plumbing

PATTI BLUNDELL, CO-OWNER, GB PLUMBING

In the words of her nominator: Patti and her husband Grant have grown up in Huntsville and now own/operate GB Plumbing. Her dedication to the community, meaning there is a social aspect to their business is something you normally don’t see. She is an advocate for the local co-op program and consistently supports it.

Along with raising 3 children Patti manages to support her local church and is the driving force behind GB Plumbing. She handles all of the admin, marketing, strategic planning and social media for the company.

JACQUI KRAMER, PROJECT MANAGER, FOWLER CONSTRUCTION

We’re honoured to nominate Jacqui Kramer as an inspiring woman in the trades.

Jacqui Kramer, Project Manager

With over 30 years of experience in civil road building, Jacqui has proven herself to be an exceptional leader, mentor, and role model for her crew and colleagues. Her unwavering commitment to her craft, paired with her deep knowledge and expertise, makes her a standout in a traditionally male-dominated field. Jacqui’s dedication to her work is unmatched—she consistently gives 150 percent in everything she does. Whether she’s overseeing complex road projects, troubleshooting on the fly, or ensuring safety standards are met, Jacqui’s attention to detail and work ethic are a constant source of inspiration to those around her. She leads by example, setting the standard for what it means to be truly dedicated to one’s trade.

Beyond her technical skills, Jacqui has also become a trusted mentor to many of her peers. She has a rare ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and patience, always making sure others understand not just how things need to be done, but why they matter. Her mentorship is invaluable, particularly for younger or less experienced workers, who look up to her as a source of guidance, support, and encouragement. Jacqui never hesitates to offer advice, share her vast knowledge, or lend a helping hand, making sure no one ever feels left behind.

Her reliability and leadership on the job site have earned her the respect and admiration of everyone who works with her. Whether it’s navigating the challenges of a tough project or helping the crew push through a long day, Jacqui is always there, leading the way with strength, confidence, and a deep care for those around her. She has become the backbone of her team—someone others can always count on when the pressure is on.

Jacqui’s impact in the civil road building industry extends far beyond just the work she does on-site. She is a trailblazer for women in the trades, showing that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible. She is truly an inspiring woman whose legacy will continue to influence and uplift those who follow in her footsteps.

Jacqui Kramer is a woman who embodies the best qualities of the trades industry—skilled, dedicated, reliable, and a true leader. She is a credit to the profession and an inspiration to everyone around her.

BILLIE MARIE HEWITT, GENERAL LABOURER, ROBINSON HAULAGE

Billie Marie Hewitt

In the words of her nominator: Billie is a hard worker and she is always helpful and works to keep everything good on the roads. She has a great work ethic and ability to get the Job completed. She is always smiling and laughing.

SIMONE MARSDEN, GENERAL MANAGER, BASK INSULATION

In the words of her nominator: Simone deserves this honor and recognition since she is an excellent manager and a great contributor to BASK Insulation.She is devoted and diligent, first and foremost. She is incredibly well-organized and dedicated to continuously learning and creating best practices for effectively and efficiently handling daily tasks. She adds a personal and upbeat touch. She created policies and procedures for running our department throughout the years, which really pleased me when I first started working for the company. As her staff, this provides continuity and enables us to get started right away instead of rushing to get our bearings. My nominee builds and sustains relationships with staff, customers, suppliers, and everyone else with ease. She contributes enthusiastically to meetings and events, which enables her to recognize unspoken requirements and generate ideas for our work.

TETIANA KABANENKO, PAINTER, BRENDAN O’BRIEN PAINTING

Tetiana Kabanenko is a remarkable example of resilience, skill, and dedication. Having moved to Canada just three years ago, Tetiana quickly immersed herself in her new life and work, establishing herself as an indispensable member of the team at Brendan O’Brien Painting. Her sharp eye for detail, quick learning ability, and strong work ethic have earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and clients alike. Known for her precision and high-quality craftsmanship, Tetiana’s work consistently exceeds expectations, and her unwavering reliability makes her a standout professional in Muskoka’s competitive painting industry. Tetiana’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence.

ALISHA CATTELANA, CARPENTER’S APPRENTICE, PATTY MAC

In the words of her nominator: Alisha was a young business woman looking for a refresh and decided to make a complete career change. Her goal to work in the trades was not just ‘a simple pick up a hammer’ and you are a carpenter. She set he sites high and has been achieving them since embarking on her goal. Alisha is the first one on site and always makes certain that all tasks are complete at days end. She is an asset to her team and her dedication along with her reliability makes her a hard to find resource in this industry. Alisha is also not content to be learning on the job but is set to attend her second round of three sessions of courses towards gaining her Apprenticeship in Carpentry.Alisha is quiet and genuine. She is strong and thoughtful woman who is building confidence respect from her peers through her work ethic and high standard for quality work.

I am aware that there are probably many woman in the trades with more experience and longevity, but if what you are searching for the future of woman in construction, then Alisha has set the bar and standards for absolute excellence.

Jacqueline Partridge, Plumber

JACQUELINE PARTRIDGE, PLUMBER, STEVENSON PLUMBING AND ELECTRIC

Jacqueline is great example of a hardworking, professional trades person who always has a good attitude towards any job. She has confidence in herself to complete tasks and even when placed in a unfamiliar situation she perseveres and does her best to sort out the problem. Jacqueline is very outgoing and gets along with all her coworkers and brings high spirits. She can work hard and have fun doing it. We have received great feedback on Jacqueline from our customers who find her personable, professional and knowledgeable. Testimonial from Emma: “Jackie has been a great addition to the plumbing team at Stevenson Plumbing and Electric and overall joining the trades. She has persevered through any challenge that has come her way with a positive attitude. She is always willing to learn and always gives 100% .

NATALIE (NAT) BENNIE, HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, ABSOLUTE LANDSCAPING

Tough, determined, adaptive, attentive, cautious, brave, and at times stubborn. These are the words that come to mind to be successful within the trades. Its not an easy place to be but i know a woman that put in the time and the work to climb through the ranks and become a very respected member of the absolute landscaping team!

Natalie Bennie, Heavy Equipment Operator

Nat Bennie is a Port Carling original and has done a bit of everything. From working as a Vet Tech Assistant, to the detailing department at Cavalcade Ford, to now running everything up to and including a 10 Ton excavator for Absolute Landscaping; this woman gives 110 percent; nothing holds this woman back from her dreams and ambitions! Six years ago she told me that she was going to run equipment, she was going to make that happen! Within a year she went from working as a manual laborer doing landscaping and property maintenance to running compact equipment laying flagstone patios. In order to develop her skill set she stepped outside her comfort zone to run equipment for McDermott and Sons Construction laying the groundwork for new subdivisions.

She has since returned to the Absolute Landscaping team and is living the dream she set for herself. Her determination, hard work, and desire to learn and develop her skill set is inspiring, she shies away from nothing! Installing septic beds, excavating foundations for new construction, establishing driveways, and building retaining walls she takes on every challenge with a humbled attitude that is one to be admired. Throughout the winter she doesn’t slow down. Driving through severe weather and working long hours Nat also takes on commercial snow removal and is often complimented on her level of care and precision.

I believe that Nat Bennie is the only one that should be considered for this award , and be showcased as a prime example for when you work hard, stay focused, and never give up on your dreams you can achieve anything!

SHELLY DUNLOP, GAS TECHNICIAN 3 & SERVICE MANAGER, BUDGET PROPANE

Shelly Dunlop

Shelly has worked at Budget Propane for over 10 years. Starting off in an office position, Shelly helped create and implement policy and procedures while maintaining her work ethic. Being a mom, a wife and still working a full time position, Shelly has worked her way from a service coordinator to a level 3 gas technician and the Service Manager after completing the course.

Shelly maintains relationships with vendors, suppliers, customers and the staff which she manages.

With Shelly’s dedication to continuously learning, setting goals and growth, she deserves to be nominated for this award. Shelly sets a level for all women to never give up and thrive for what you believe in.

CHARMA LIPPERT, HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR/COMPOST OPERATOR/TANDEM DUMP TRUCK DRIVER

Testimonial from CoWorker: Charma is the reason I became confident in trades and co

Charma Lippert

nfident in myself working with and around heavy equipment. She is one of the greatest co workers I have ever had because she is a true teacher and leader. She takes the time to teach you correctly and calmly about whatever you need to know about what you are working with. When I first started working with her a couple years ago she taught me how to reverse, attach and pull a short tongued trailer (I had minimal experience in a 3/4 ton pickup at the time). Fast forward to years later she has been teaching me controls and how to be comfortable around and running her loader and even the dump truck. I can even operate a CAT 420 backhoe by myself now! This woman is everything that an operator entails and more. I wouldn’t be where I am in trades or have the hopes that I do for myself without knowing and working with her. She is in such deserventment or this award it feels so natural for her. This is what she was born to do and to teach the love of equipment to those willing to learn. Thank you Charma

About first Muskoka’s Woman in Construction Recognition Campaign and Award Program.

Do you know a standout woman in Muskoka that gets the job done right in contracting, construction or the trades? Please nominate her today. Or nominate yourself! We will showcase each nominee to inspire others to train for a great career in contracting/construction/trades.

About that awesome person (you can nominate yourself or someone can do it for you…)

You’re a trailblazer in the trades, the crew boss all look up to, a mentor to all who build beside you. Maybe you’re newer in the trades or construction, or you’ve rocked your job for years. You could be the one who inspires another woman to join this important industry sector in Muskoka.

MEET THE NOMINEES TO DATE: Click here for descriptions and list of nominees to date. Is your nominee there? If not, please contact us.

Organized by the Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce, this project is Supported by The District of Muskoka IDEA Grant Program, Fowler Construction. Robinson Haulage & Quarry and Employment North Gravenhurst.

It’s easy to nominate. Here’s what you need to know.

Nominees must have:

• An address in Muskoka (or Employer address in Muskoka)
• At least one years’ experience in contracting/trades

Nomination Applications must have:

• Up to 350 words about why they should get this award (written by a nominator or nominee)
• Up to 200 words about community work beyond the job (not mandatory but could help!).

NOMINATION DEADLINE: SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 2025. Nominate today!

Finalists will be asked if they have any photos of them on the job or work they’ve finished or had a hand in.

Award Presentation: At the YWCA Muskoka Women of Distinction Gala, Saturday, March 8, 2025

(Details to come)

Why shine a light on women working in contracting, construction and trades?

Sharing success stories of women in construction can inspire other women to get the training they need to succeed as well. Plus, women remain under represented in this sector. We have staff shortages and while some women are thriving in this business, some are still thinking about it. We have work to do in the area of equal pay for equal work, for example.

Did you know …a male journeyperson (all trades) certified after two years of certification makes almost three times as much as a woman with same experience? Those are 2019 stats. We hope that’s changed and hear it’s better in Muskoka.

Comments from our Project Partners – thank you for your generous support:

“At Fowler, we are constantly looking for ways to increase diversity and remove barriers in our workplace. We are working hard to create a culture of mutual respect in which differences are valued, and everyone can thrive. We work to proactively attract women to our industry and support their growth, development, and careers within our organization.”
Jaime Chapman, Fowler Construction

“Employment North in Gravenhurst proudly supports women in Construction in Muskoka. Join us to celebrate the power, skill, and resilience of women in the trades, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.”
Sherri Scarr, Employment North

“Robinson Haulage is always looking for a way to enhance teamwork, foster a more inclusive work environment, open doors for new ideas and innovation as well as forging new paths for future generations. We are dedicated to creating a supportive and dynamic environment where women can thrive. We are a proud family owned and run business for over 50 years in Kilworthy, Muskoka and are proud to help celebrate the power, skill and resilience of women in the trades.”
Rob Robinson, Robinson Haulage

“At the Muskoka Lakes Chamber, we think success stories go a long way to attracting good workers for our Chamber Members and showcasing women in construction is yet another way we act on our values of diversity, equity and inclusion.”
Norah Fountain, Muskoka Lakes Chamber

“We feel strongly that this project amplifies the efforts of the IDEA Advisory Group (IAG) in creating opportunities for community engagement and public education around IDEA principles of inclusion, diversity, equity and anti-racism (or anti-hate).”
Tina Kilbourne, District of Muskoka

Our Judging Panel is made possible thanks to the support of Honour The Work and Work Boot Consulting.

Honour the Work serves to shine a spotlight on incredible Canadian organizations and opportunities which can support and guide your path to the skilled trades.

Work Boot Consulting helps tradespeople who want to run their own profitable contracting business get control of their business and find time for themselves. They are a proud funding sponsor and a member of our Judging Panel.

Questions: Contact Norah at norah@muskokalakeschamber.ca or call the Chamber at 705 762 5663.