On November 14, the BCIT ConnectHER Hub, in partnership with the Canadian Coalition of Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology (CCWESTT)and the BC Centre for Women in the Trades (BCCWITT), hosted Co-Action: Recruiting and Retaining a Diverse Workforce at BCIT’s School of Construction and the Environment.
This free co-action discussion lunch brought together industry leaders, educators, and community partners for a candid and solutions-focused conversation on one of the most pressing challenges facing the skilled trades: how to recruit, retain, and support diverse teams amid ongoing labour shortages.
The session was facilitated by Trevor Mayoh of NextGenMen, whose thoughtful and engaging approach helped guide meaningful dialogue and reflection throughout the discussion.
Designed intentionally as not a traditional HR workshop, the session created space for honest dialogue around what is actually working on worksites and within organizations. Participants explored practical strategies for building safer and more inclusive workplaces, strengthening team retention, and better understanding how workers’ mental health impacts job performance, safety, and long-term career sustainability.
The discussion reinforced that addressing labour shortages requires more than recruitment alone. Creating environments where people feel respected, supported, and able to thrive is essential to keeping skilled workers in the industry. Collaboration across industry, education, and community emerged as a key driver of meaningful and lasting change.
With lunch shared around the table, the gathering fostered connection and exchange, reflecting the belief that meaningful change in the skilled trades begins with collaboration.
This event was supported through the generous contributions of Fanshawe Corporate Training Solutions and the Embark Student Foundation’s Major Grant Program.
To learn more about upcoming events, mentorship opportunities, and community initiatives, visit the ConnectHER Hub webpage and follow @connectherhub on Instagram.