Announcing… the first ever Muskoka-wide search for…

MUSKOKA’S WOMAN IN CONSTRUCTION!

Go to our easy Nomination Google Doc Form now >

 

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.

 

 

 

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.