Women in Trades

Advancing Women in Apprenticeship

Advancing Women in Apprenticeship initiatives aim to support recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in the 39 Red Seal construction and manufacturing trades. Initiatives to support women in their apprenticeship journey include: 

• The Women in Trades Incentive for new apprentices.
• Learning supports to address learning challenges that may impact progression.
• Development of a mentorship program for women to promote connection, support, encouragement, and safe, inclusive work experiences.
• Engagement activities with women, employers, and industry partners to increase awareness and support the creation of safe, healthy, and respectful workplaces for women.

 For more information, refer to the Advancing Women in Apprenticeship Guidelines. 

Advancing Women in Apprenticeship initiatives administered by the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency are funded in part by the Government of Canada's Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy.

Partners and Resources for Women

• Nova Scotia Trades Connection
• Women Unlimited
• YWCA

Resources for Employers 

• Explore our Onboarding Checklist for practical tips on creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for your new apprentice.

Let’s Connect: Mentorship for Women Apprentices

Applications now open for the next cohort starting May 2026! 

This program supports the retention and progression of women apprentices in the 39 Red Seal Construction or Manufacturing trades through supportive mentorship. Experienced tradespeople are paired with women apprentices to provide practical advice, guidance, and a safe space to ask questions, work through challenges and plan for the future.

The program lasts for 6 months, with the mentor and mentee participating in 4-6 meetings during that time.  

• Mentorship training and tips on how to get the most out of the relationship will be provided.  
• It is flexible - participants choose when they meet and how to work together.  
• A honorarium is provided upon meeting key program milestones.  
• The program is administered by EnPoint on behalf of NSAA.

Mentor Eligibility: Experienced tradespeople in one of the 39 Red Seal construction or manufacturing trades must meet at least one of the following criteria:

1. A certified journeyperson with a valid Certificate of Qualification (CofQ)
2. OR Currently an apprentice in the final year of their apprenticeship program

Mentee Eligibility: Women apprentices registered in one of the 39 Red Seal construction or manufacturing trades. Mentees can be at any stage of their apprenticeship and must be committed to connecting with their mentor over a 6-month period, 4-6 times. 

Learn More: 

• FAQ
• Program Application
• Applications close April 13th