NORTHERN ALBERTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
NAIT hosts Jill of All Trades to empower women to explore the skilled trades

About 200 students converged on NAIT's Main Campus to attend Jill of All Trades, a dynamic event designed to inspire and empower women to explore careers in the skilled trades. This year's event was open to students in Grades 9-12, and offered hands-on workshops and real-world insights into what it's like to build a future in the trades. 

"Jill of All Trades is about providing a welcoming and supportive environment for young women to try their hand at a trade," says Laurel Tokuda, Associate Dean, School of Construction and Building Sciences and red seal master electrician. "Whether it's picking up a hammer for the first time, cutting glass or learning to build an electrical cord, we want students to gain not only hands-on experience but the confidence to see themselves thriving in these careers." 

Students rolled up their sleeves and tested their skills in more than 15 hands-on workshops, from electrical and carpentry to plumbing and welding. Beyond the tools and techniques, they heard directly from women currently working in the field, powerful stories that break down barriers and show what's possible. 

Welcoming students from Yellowknife 
For the first time, NAIT welcomed students from outside Alberta, including a group of female students visiting from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Their participation underscores the growing reach and impact of initiatives like Jill of All Trades in shaping a diverse and inclusive workforce.  

"Students in the Northwest Territories often have limited exposure to skilled trades," says Cindy Komove, Assistant Principal at École St. Patrick High School in Yellowknife, NWT.  "Jill of All Trades helps students see pathways instead of barriers, connecting their community to a wider network and showing the range of opportunities available. As an educator, it's incredibly powerful to help students understand they have a variety of choices for a successful career." 

"The hands-on workshops are really helping me explore and expand different workplaces and work opportunities," said Tessa Nendsa, Grade 10 student at École St. Patrick High School in Yellowknife, NWT. "Up in the territories we don't have as many opportunities as you would down here, so it's really eye-opening to see how many trades there really are." 

Looking ahead 
As Canada's largest skilled trades training provider, NAIT equips more than 10,000 apprentices and diploma students in trades and technology every year. Skilled trades are the backbone of Alberta's and Canada's economy, yet women remain significantly underrepresented. Jill of All Trades is helping rewrite that story, empowering young women with the confidence, knowledge, and industry connections they need to thrive in these rewarding careers.