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It is not often a fashion show features models in coveralls, hardhats and work boots, unless the models are women actually working in the mining sector, showing off their work clothes.
That was just one of the activities on the agenda Oct. 19 at the Vale Women in Trades, Mining and Friends Social, held in Cambrian College’s eDome.
The event was a collaboration of Vale Canada Women and Allies Network, United Steel Workers (USW) 6500 Women of Steel, and Cambrian’s Centre for Smart Mining, with Vale serving as the main organizer and host.
“What an amazing evening,” says Pamela Drouin, Administrative and Communications Coordinator for Cambrian R&D, the college’s applied research division, in a press release.
“It brought together women working in a wide range of industries to promote the opportunities that exist for women in mining and other fields. We want more women to explore these options because they are very rewarding and pay well.”
The highlight of the event was the women’s work gear fashion show. Exhibitors included Covergalls, Vallen and Grainger. The evening also included display booths, and a panel discussion of women working in the mining related skilled trades, with the panel led by Stephanie Bleker, Manager of Vale’s Totten Mine.
“From the personal experiences shared by the women on our panel, you can really see how our workplaces are transforming,” said Theresa Nyabeze, a Senior Specialist Mining Engineer from Vale who served as MC and coordinator of the event. “Events like this will continue to highlight how accessible mining is for everyone.”
One of the attendees at the event was Emélie Labelle. She is hoping to become more involved in the mining industry.
“What a great feeling it was to be surrounded by strong women. Hearing stories from women coming from different walks of life to form such a great community was truly inspiring,” she said.
According to Statistics Canada, only about five per cent of skilled trades workers are women. Events like the Vale Women in Trades, Mining and Friends Social have a goal of increasing the number of women who work in skilled trades.
“Today, we welcome women into our workplaces to contribute in many meaningful ways to the mining industry,” adds Jennifer Bagley, Manager of Human Resources for Vale’s North Atlantic operations. “Our global goal is to achieve 26 per cent females by 2025 and to have inclusive workplaces where employees are able to be their authentic selves.”
This week is also Jill of All Trades week at Cambrian College.
On Oct. 25, there was a panel discussion featuring several women working in leadership roles in the skilled trades. On Oct. 27, dozens of high school girls were on campus to get first-hand experience in trades.
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