Immigrant Women Trades Apprenticeship Program (IWTA)

A 10-week program (six weeks of skills training and four weeks of work experience) that supports immigrant women apprentices from intercultural equity deserving groups who are underserved, facing multiple barriers to employment in five identified Red Seal Trades in British Columbia: carpenter, plumber, welder, construction electrician, and construction craft worker. Program is free and open to women in BC who are Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, or Protected refugees. Admission criteria includes an admissions interview and a minimum score of 50% in English and Maths Assessment. Offers peer mentorship opportunities from experienced women in trades; living expenses, participation and completion recognition; need-based supports, adaptive technology, transportation and dependent care; professional work clothing, safety equipment, and criminal record check support; individualized and customized action plan; and employment support in terms of job readiness workshops and post-employment support. Education partners are ACE Trades and Technical Institute, and Sprott Shaw College.