Young women should pre-register for next week's first Bruce-Grey Build a Dream career discovery expo.
It's aimed at encouraging young women to pursue careers where females are underrepresented
Walkerton-based manufacturer Larsen and Shaw Limited will be one of 30 exhibitors ready to share information and advice on careers in skilled trades, sciences, technology, engineering, math, emergency services and entrepreneurship. There will also be hands-on activities, workshops, a photo booth and scholarship opportunities. Approximately 500 people are expected to attend.
Larsen and Shaw Limited has been creating a balanced and diverse workforce since the company was founded in 1919. Women make up approximately 20 per cent of Larsen and Shaw Limited’s 100-person workforce, while on average, only 5.6 per cent of employed women in Canada have a job in manufacturing
President and CEO Mary Jane Bushell said they offer job shadowing, formal co-op placements, pre-apprenticeship programs.
The company relies on outreach and engagement with high schools, colleges and universities to showcase to women career opportunities in robotics, automation and electronics.
Bushell said it can be a challenge recruiting and attracting talent to her community and skilled trade workers are often drawn to opportunities in larger cities
“We’ve always been well ahead of the curve in terms of a diverse workforce,” said Bushell. “It’s the way we operate and part of our values. Other companies may be scrambling to adopt this philosophy but an inclusive workforce has always been in our culture.”
The manufacturer of hinges, architectural products, hardware and metal stampings is the largest in Canada.
They have recently expanded into Georgia with plans for a presence in Mexico as well.
“Always go see and discover what it’s all about,” said Bushell. “There has never been a better time for women to expand into this space to enjoy challenging and rewarding careers.”
The event at the Unifor Family Education Centre in Port Elgin is November 19 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. It's free for young women in Grades 9-12 as well as their parents/guardians.
