Do you have female clients who are curious about the trades?
ConnectHER: Make A Trade Connection are 2-week, fully funded programs providing a unique opportunity to explore one of the following trades: Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, or Welding, with the support of a community of female mentors.
Program Highlights:
• Hands-On Learning: One full week on campus, gaining practical skills in the chosen trade.
• Safety Training: The second week covers essential safety training and certifications many employers require, such as Working At Heights.
Admission Requirements:
• Open to women and those identifying as female only
• Grade 12 or equivalent is recommended (exceptions reviewed individually)
• Must be 18 years or older (exceptions reviewed individually)
• Canadian citizen or permanent resident residing in Ontario
• Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 7 or higher recommended
Application Process:
• Email Eva Opitz-Black at eopitzblack@conestogac.on.ca to receive a program application.
• You may be asked to attend a personal interview (phone call) to assist with the application process.
• Accepted applicants can only complete one program due to funding limitations.
• There are 16 spots available in each program.
Upcoming Program Dates and Locations:
Please note:
1. All programs include one week of hands-on learning on campus and one week of safety training with a third-party provider in Cambridge.
2. We may add additional dates and will keep you updated.
Program: Electrical (Program #1668)
Dates: June 23 - July 4, 2025
Locations: Conestoga Skilled Trades Campus (Reuter) and BuildSafe in Cambridge
Program: Welding (Program #1669)
Dates: October 20 - 31, 2025
Locations: Conestoga’s Brantford (Airport) Campus and BuildSafe in Cambridge
About ConnectHER: A coalition of allied partners, including Polytechnics, community service organizations, and advocacy groups, has come together to create a national mentorship community for women in skilled trades. Our goal is to bring together women in the trades through training, networking, and promoting diversity and inclusivity. By combining the strengths and resources of all our ConnectHER allies, we aim to equip women with the skills, support, and opportunities necessary to succeed and excel in their chosen trade careers.
For more information about the programs, email ConnectHER@conestogac.on.ca.
ConnectHER is funded by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy.