On October 24, 2025, the ConnectHER Hub and BCIT’s Respect, Diversity, and Inclusion Department co-hosted a Day of Connection and Professional Development for Women and Gender-Diverse Trades Faculty on Burnaby Campus.
The session brought together women and gender-diverse trades faculty from across the trades to strengthen community, share learning, and explore practical ways to create safer and more inclusive classrooms. With opening remarks from Elder Tina Aquash, and Chris Hudson, BCIT Vice President of People, Culture, and Inclusion, the day included facilitated sessions on Student Conduct, De-escalation, Classroom Management, and the development of a new Employee Resource Group for women and gender-diverse trades faculty.
The event highlighted how building inclusive environments requires proactive collaboration between trades faculty and institutional supports. It also recognized that trades programs present unique dynamics, where short program lengths and fast-paced training call for timely tools to support both students and faculty.
“This day was about taking action together,” said Anna Lary, Project Lead of the ConnectHER Hub. “By learning, connecting, and sharing responsibility, we are helping to create a culture where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued.”
The initiative reflects BCIT’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and belonging across all learning environments, empowering faculty to lead meaningful change in the skilled trades.
Learn more about upcoming ConnectHER Hub initiatives and explore BCIT’s Respect, Diversity, and Inclusion resources.