Empowering Women: Scholarships Up to $2,000 for Northeastern Ontario Trades

Lady Lake, Canada - The Northeastern Ontario Construction Association (NOCA) is inviting women across the region to seize a golden opportunity to advance their careers in skilled trades. The association’s Women in Construction Committee is once again offering scholarships aimed at empowering women entering the construction industry. Reports suggest that these scholarships are valued at up to $2,000 each, designed to aid in educational pursuits or career advancement within construction-related trades. This marks the fourth consecutive year that NOCA has extended this initiative, which began in 2022 to support, educate, and mentor women in these vital fields. Elliot Lake Today outlines that eligible applicants must be residents of Northern Ontario, currently enrolled in, planning to enroll, or recent graduates of a construction-focused trades program that involves hands-on work, tools, or heavy equipment.

This initiative not only provides financial assistance but also fosters community engagement and advocacy for women in trades. The committee is not just about handing out money; they are actively involved in engaging the community through various educational and networking events. For instance, they host the „Jill of All Trades“ career fair for high school girls and an annual roundtable to discuss the challenges women face in the construction industry. Moreover, they honor the dedication of outstanding contributors by selecting a „Woman in Construction of the Year“ annually.

Scholarship Details and Changes

In 2024, the committee is offering a total of four bursaries, amounting to $8,000 overall, with individual awards of $2,000 each. A welcome change this year is that proof of enrollment in a trades program is no longer a prerequisite at the time of application. This modification aims to make the scholarships more accessible, especially for those navigating non-traditional school calendars. As noted by Link2Build, this change is expected to help encourage more women to apply.

Eligibility requirements remain straightforward: applicants must be women aged 18 or older and residents of Northern Ontario. The application process is open until September 12, providing ample time for interested candidates to prepare their submissions. This initiative is made possible through generous sponsorships from local organizations like Anmar and NORCAT, which have enabled NOCA to increase the number of scholarships available this year. Funds Digest has also reiterated the association’s commitment to increasing female representation in these crucial trades.

As the application deadline approaches, there is no better time for women in Northern Ontario to take an active step towards a fulfilling career in the construction industry. With the supportive framework provided by NOCA and the Women in Construction Committee, these scholarships represent a beacon of opportunity for aspiring tradeswomen. Don’t miss out on this chance to build a future in a dynamic and rewarding field!