North Bay course urges indigenous women into trades.

This June, 16 women hit the books, and the tools, in Canadore's new Aboriginal Women in the Trades program. The in-person 12-week certificate program is run out of North Bay, and will explore four areas: building construction, electrical, plumbing and carpentry.

"Our First Nations people are improving the economic and social environment of their communities through education," said Judy Manitowabi, manager of the First Peoples' Centre Community Based and Contract Training at Canadore College. "Increasing the capacity for skilled labour in our communities lays a positive foundation for healthy growth and sustainable practices."

The program is culturally based and incorporates a holistic approach to skills development, self-development, academic knowledge and safety certifications, with practical hands-on training in the trades sector.

The program is funded by the Ontario Poverty Reduction Fund and delivered in partnership with a...