Federal government supports CAWIC initiative to advance women into more decision-making roles Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer Women interested in construction careers will get a boost through fed- eral government support for a collaborative project aimed at increasing numbers of women in management roles. In January Dr. K Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Status of Women, an- nounced a decision to grant $249,900 to the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) to advance women into more decision-making roles. The funding targets construction and related sectors in Ontario, Alberta and New- foundland and Labrador. At the heart of the initiative is a collaborative effort: Opening Doors: Economic Op- portunities for Women. Comprised of industry, government and educational institutions, the 36-month project will result in an action plan to increase women’s retention and progression in the industry. “We are pleased to partner with the Government of Canada on this project so that more women can advance into key decision-making roles within the construction industry across Canada, focusing initially in Ontario, Alberta and Newfoundland,” says CAWIC president Tammy Evans. “We look forward to collaborating with in- dustry stakeholders at the local level to help women achieve this goal." “The number of women entering the field of construction is growing,” Evans told the Ontario Construction Report in a 2012 interview. “We see that in the numbers entering and graduating from targeted educational programs,” Evans said. “Where we need to focus more energy though is on keeping those women in the industry.” She said often the challenge is that women still traditionally care for house- holds and often have additional child care responsibilities. Employers need to recognize and be prepared to support their family responsibilities. She said the key to directing and supporting change is through a collective voice. She also said more attention needs to be paid to women's unique skills and strengths. “Women have certain strengths men don’t have, for example, when it comes to fine motor skills, attention to detail and teamwork. These are skills the industry needs to more formally recognize.” CAWIC and other relevant organizations seek to lead change by providing in- formation, support, mentorship, facilitating access to jobs and training partner- ships to benefit and support women in the industry. In British Columbia, the Vancouver Regional Construction Association supports Canadian Construction Women (CCW). Like CAWIC, CCW’s website says it provides members with opportunities for support, mentoring, networking, community involvement, learning and develop- ment. The organization is led by a board of directors representing key industry players like PCL Constructors Westcoast Inc., EllisDon and Ledcor. Meanwhile, in 2013 the Calgary Construction Association held its inaugural ‘Women In Construction "Yes We Can!" Open 9 Hole Best Ball Golf Tournament.’ Events like these, led by organizations and associations who recognize the role women have in the industry, provide networking and support opportunities for the growing number of women in the field. The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Spring 2014 – 39