Burlington, ON — Women looking to join the skilled trades have the opportunity to receive money back in their pockets through a government-funded program. The Ontario government is accepting applications for its Women’s Economic Security Program (WESP). Since its inception in 2018, the program has helped 237 women find jobs in the skilled trades.
“The Women’s Economic Security Program is empowering women with the skills they need to join the workforce and help build Ontario together,” said Charmaine Williams, associate minister of women’s social and economic opportunity.
WESP aims to expand and increase training opportunities for low-income women to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and experience to find a job or start a business and increase their financial security.
Training will be provided in the following four streams: skilled trades, entrepreneurship, information technology and general employment. Through the program, women can access support resources such as childcare, transportation and food. There are also specialized support resources for intimate partner violence.
WESP has helped more than 2,100 women secure employment, become entrepreneurs or pursue further training and/or education.
Currently, the provincial government has invested $5.5 million, including an additional $496,000 this year.