On November 7, the BCIT ConnectHER Hub hosted The Forge, a peer-led initiative by the Construction Foundation of British Columbia, for an event focused on mental health and peer support in the skilled trades. More than fifty trades students, apprentices, and faculty gathered in the High Performance Building Lab to take part in an open conversation about the unique pressures faced by trades workers.
The Forge was created by and for tradespeople in response to the growing mental health and addiction crises across the sector. In an industry where a culture of “toughing it out” too often discourages workers from seeking help, the consequences can be severe for individuals, families, and workplaces. These realities underscore the urgent need for support systems that are grounded in the lived experiences of people working on the tools. By providing a framework for peer support and honest, stigma‑breaking conversations, The Forge helps foster healthier, more resilient workers and safer, more supportive workplaces.
Speakers included Jennie Nadeau, Director of Outreach and Community Programs, and Peer Mentors Shawn Underhill, Iron Worker, and Travis Shupe, Red Seal Carpenter. Each shared personal stories of stress, injury, recovery, and resilience. Their honest reflections helped students and faculty understand the importance of peer support and the value of speaking openly about mental health.
“The Forge provides tradespeople with support that feels familiar and accessible,” says Jennie Nadeau. “Peer connections reduce isolation, and many workers find it easier to reach out when the person on the other end understands the culture they come from.”
The session was introduced by Anna Lary, Master Electrician and Project Lead of the ConnectHER Hub. She noted that the pressures of the trades are often invisible and that fostering conversations like this is essential for building safe, supportive learning and working environments.
“It was an honour to welcome The Forge to BCIT,” says Lary. “Many students are already navigating stress or isolation as they move through their training. Bringing in experienced peers who can speak honestly about their own paths creates connection and hope.”
Attendees explored the building envelope mockups in the High-Performance Lab before and after the event. Light refreshments were provided and the session concluded with a Milwaukee tool draw, generously supported by Home Depot Pro and Joanna Dunn.
BCIT extends sincere thanks to Alexandre Hebert and Derek Fiddler for providing the High-Performance Lab for this gathering. The ConnectHER Hub also acknowledges the support of Fanshawe Corporate Training Solutions and the Embark Student Foundation’s Major Grant Program, which make events like this possible.
The ConnectHER Hub continues to focus on equity, belonging, and retention in the skilled trades through community events, mentorship, and student-centered programming.
To learn more about upcoming ConnectHER initiatives, visit the ConnectHER Hub webpage or follow @connectherhub on Instagram.