In May, more than 300 secondary students from the OCDSB joined the Women in Trades Career Discovery Expo, presented in partnership with Build a Dream and the Ottawa Catholic School Board.
Held at the EY Centre, this event highlighted a variety of career pathways and opportunities available through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) and Pre-apprenticeship program. Students met employers in fields ranging from construction to electricity to emergency services, who shared about what they look for in candidates and how to get an edge in their industries. The students participated in hands-on activities and demonstrations, and joined a Dream Maker panel discussion where a diverse group of professionals shared their journeys and career advice.
Students said they enjoyed networking, trying different activities, getting free swag and resources, and seeing the variety of opportunities open to them. They left feeling inspired to try the trades and excited to explore new pathways in their career journeys. Check out this video to hear more about their experience: