With skilled tradespeople in high demand, women are being looked at to help fill the need.

The BC Labour Market (2023) estimates include 156,000 job openings in skilled trades and related jobs by 2033, with an expanding construction industry and an increasing need for trades services in the Okanagan.

To help address this growing need, Okanagan College (OC) is part of the Jill of All Trades initiative — a day-long event to inspire young women in Grades 9-12 to pursue education and careers in skilled trades and apprenticeship. The Nov. 22 event at the Vernon campus provides a safe and engaging learning environment where female mentors, faculty and student engage in hand-on trades workshops.

"Jill of All Trades serves as an important initiative in closing the gender gap while encouraging all youth to consider trades as a viable and rewarding career path," said Ginger Albrecht, OC communication advisor.

"This is an exciting opportunity to witness young women stepping into trades, many for the first time, under the mentorship of industry professionals. It’s also a time to support the future of our region’s economy."

Ahead of the OC event, all students (not just women) are invited to WorkBC's Find Your Fit tour coming to Vernon Monday, Nov. 18. The hands-on, interactive program will be at Hillview Elementary School from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Students in Grades 5-10 are invited to try the skills they'll need in different careers that are in-demand.

Then all parents and students are invited to a Career Programs information night Wednesday, Nov. 20 at Vernon Secondary School (in the theatre) at 6:30 p.m.

Parents and students can learn about how students can earn post-secondary and high school credits while still in high school (dual credit).

There are many opportunities for students to attend courses or programs in the trades, technology, academics, engineering, health, early childhood education, spa foundations and many more.

OC, Thompson Rivers University, Skilled Trades BC and Interior Health will be in attendance to answer questions about courses/programs and job opportunities.

For more information about Career Programs visit .

Currently, 20 per cent of Okanagan College Trades Foundation students in underrepresented trades are female and there has been an increase in female applications for this program by more than 44 per cent over the past two years.

New trades programs are also being offered in Vernon including electrical apprenticeship (fall 2024) and refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic foundation (winter 2025).

"There is growth and momentum building and it is imperative that we continue to support and nurture that growth," said Albrecht.

"By investing in events like Jill of All Trades, we can help strengthen and diversify the pipeline of skilled talent in our local trades industry, creating long-term benefits for our communities, businesses, and economy."