OC’s Jill of All Trades event inspires the next generation of female skilled trades professionals in the Okanagan
Okanagan College – May 23, 2025 / 9:32 am | Read the full story
Over 130 middle and high school students explored skilled trades at Jill of All Trades, a hands-on event hosted by Okanagan College (OC) on May 22. Designed to inspire young women, the event featured workshops led by industry mentors and OC alumni.
Now in its third year at OC, Jill of All Trades supports the College’s efforts to close the skilled trades gap and boost female representation—currently under 4% in many trades nationwide. The initiative is part of broader efforts, including the newly launched ACTION Project, to support inclusive education and apprentice success.
The day kicked off with a keynote by Red Seal carpenter and business owner Krista Paine, who emphasized the freedom and stability trades can offer. Last year’s event led to 30 new trades students, and organizers hope to build on that momentum.