Manitoba Women in Trades Conference | 2024 “She Builds”

Kerry Mealey-Holmes is a seasoned workplace trainer with a passion for cultivating leadership success. In her work for over a decade as a corporate trainer, speaker, and facilitator, she shines a light on awareness around topics such as effective communication, building trust, as well as social and emotional intelligence. She is also a Civility instructor, receiving her certification through Civility Experts Worldwide.

Her flexibility to adapt to various learning styles, personalities, and contexts has enabled her to earn a reputation for delivering training that changes how people think, how they interact, and how they work.

Outside of her day job, Kerry loves to explore! You will find her skiing at a park, swimming, or paddling across a lake.

Growing up on a farm, Jocelyne Guyot (Electrical Engineering Technician) was exposed to physical, hands-on work at a young age. Without realizing it, this is where Jocelyne’s interest in trades began. From working on farm equipment to being crew chief for her brother’s race teams, Jocelyne loved working with her hands and learning on the job.

After high school, Jocelyne enrolled in university on a few scholarships with aspirations to be a Physiotherapist. After two years of university, she realized this wasn’t the path for her. “University taught me that I am more of a hands-on learner than a book learner.” While waiting for enrollment to Red River College for level 1 Electrical, Jocelyne worked on a cattle farm in rural Manitoba. At a barrel racing event, a former Manitoba Hydro human resources representative told Jocelyne about the Power Electrician trade and encouraged her to apply for the training program. Jocelyne didn’t know anything about the power electrician trade but thought it would be a good way to get into the electrical program and begin her formal education in the trade.

Now, over 10 years later, Jocelyne is a qualified Power Electrician with Manitoba Hydro. She has expanded her experience and has moved into the Electrical Engineering Technician at Pointe du Bois and Slave Falls Generating Stations. The Manitoba Hydro training program took Jocelyne all over the province of Manitoba, experiencing many different things and learning along the way. Jocelyne is invested in teaching, encouraging, and supporting the women in the power electrician trade at Manitoba Hydro. “The thing about electrical is it’s always changing. New equipment, new ways to reach our goal, and new safety equipment. We are always learning and finding new ways to do things.”

Lorraine Cook (Operating/Electrical Technician) grew up watching her dad work on the Kelsey Generating Station while living in Kelsey until she was 5 years old before moving to Gillam. Lorraine spoke Cree as her primary language and learned English when starting Grade 1. Her dad would show her how to use tools and introduce her to fixing equipment, and it was at this young age that Lorraine knew she was interested in trades.

Lorraine followed her dream of pursuing a career in the trades while raising three children and going to school at the same time, all while maintaining high marks. Currently working at Long Spruce Generating Station as an Operating/Electrical Technician, Lorraine has worked for Manitoba Hydro for 22 years in various roles. She also is  a part of Manitoba Hydro’s volunteer firefighting team. Lorraine has gained many skills along the way and takes the opportunity to share her knowledge by mentoring women in trades and attending career events and presentations. Throughout her career, Lorraine has learned to adapt to working in a male-dominated field while being a mother and a caregiver at the same time. She works hard, does not give up when times are tough, and is eager to continue being an advocate for tradeswomen.

Kristina is a Red Seal Carpenter. A lifelong Winnipegger, and proud North Ender, after high school she attended University of Manitoba obtaining a Bachelor of Arts. She started working in the training department at the Carpenter’s Union, in the office and teaching safety courses eventually becoming training coordinator. After a career change years later, she looked at the trades and decided to give it a try. She found that working on the tools was a great fit and pursued her Red Seal through an apprenticeship with Bird Construction. She has worked on a wide variety of commercial and industrial projects during her career.  Kristina is proud to say that she was part of forming pile caps to laying patio blocks before grand opening at The Leaf at Assiniboine park. She has been working for Gibraltar Concrete, home grown winnipeg contractor for almost 2 years and is currently site foreman for the over 250,000 sqft expansion of the Winpak Manufacturing plant here in Winnipeg.

 Kristina encourages young women to get into construction and loves participating in MWC’s iunlocking the tool kit event. She also brings her hands on experiance to Girl Guides in the North end of Winnipeg as a Unit Guider.

Kristina is a mom of three awesome kids, the oldest of which recently started his own construction career. Her husband, Jarred, of 13 years has been a rock  for her throughout her construction journey.

Leah is a Red Seal Carpenter.  Leah worked for 6 years in residential renovation and restoration for Doll Construction and was mentored by master carpenter Brian Doll. Since then, Leah has been working in commercial construction for 7 years starting as an apprentice and working her way up.

Leah showed interest at a young age in building and grew up completing home renovation projects with her handyman Father. From a young age Leah was taught the importance of doing things right and quickly developed a love for building. She bought her first house at age 16 and continued to use the skills her father taught her to renovate. When her parents decided to move to Africa to build their own dream with Dashir lodge and Safaris and their non-for-profit organization Dashir Cares Leah was determined to keep learning and set out to find a new mentor. While it was a struggle to find a job with no professional experience Leah was eventually taken on by Brian Doll and was able to continue learning to build.

Leah has gained a great deal of experience and expertise along every step of this journey and hopes to help educate and mentor the next generation of Women considering a career in construction, and to help break down barriers that many face along their journeys.

Nina Widmer has been pursuing her passion in the Masonry industry for the past 19 years. She was the first female in Manitoba to get her Red Seal ticket in bricklaying. The trades have given her the experience, knowledge and opportunity to grow her business, Widmer Castings, with her partner, for the past 10 years. She has continuously strived to encourage young women to pick up the tools, join the trades and pave their own way in the industry. 

Kara began her career in 2012 at Borland Construction, where she worked in their quarry, gaining hands-on experience and developing her skills in the aggregate industry. After Borland shut down, she transitioned to Hugh Munro Construction, where she continued to grow and adapt, taking on new challenges.  Kara ensures that all the aggregate that comes from Lilyfield Quarry meets the specifications for the COW, MTI, and any other projects that Lilyfield supplies.

Christina is a Red Seal Steamfitter, born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With an industrial background, she has worked on many major projects and pipelines spanning across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and NW Ontario.

After the birth of her son and upon returning to work, Christina taught Plumbing and Pipe Trades with the Winnipeg School Division for 6 years. She has been working with the Piping Industry Technical College for a decade and loves her current role as Digital Education Development Instructor.  supporting instructing staff, course and technical development, social media production, trades promotion, and outreach.

Christina is the current Chair of Build Together Manitoba and has been an active member since 2015. She has been passionate about encouraging, mentoring, and supporting women currently in or interested in a career in the trades. She has spoken publicly as a major supporter of Women in construction and continues to advocate for equal rights, opportunity, and pay in this industry.

Christina has an appreciation for nature, a green thumb, and loves to camp with her 11-year-old son, Grayson. Preferring self-propelled activities, Christina enjoys cycling, paddling, climbing, hiking and has a goal of summiting Mt. Baldy in her lifetime.

Jamie is an experienced executive leader, capacity builder, knowledge broker and partnership convenor in the public sector.  With 24 years in the public service, she has worked in various program areas; social services, workforce development, Indigenous reconciliation and northern relations, and in central government.  Now as a consultant, Jamie brings her leadership, strategy development and program design and implementation skills to supporting organizations to build capacity and drive for positive outcomes.

Recognizing the critical importance of economic prosperity for women is a cornerstone to Jamie’s approach to making meaningful impact on gender-based violence and advancing the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Jamie believes that when women do better, we all do better.

As Executive Director at Women and Gender Equity Manitoba, Jamie secured and guided the investment of more than $3.5 million in training initiatives for women and girls in the areas of heavy construction, building trades, aerospace, information and communication technology and social services. Under Jamie’s leadership, the budget for the Gender-Based Violence Prevention Program, which is now $20 million annually, profoundly expanding the impact of these programs and services to those impacted by gender-based violence across Manitoba.

Jamie was raised as a settler, but is a woman of Indigenous heritage, working to reconnect to her maternal roots to Missanabie Cree First Nation in Treaty 9 territory near Sault Ste Marie, ON

Ken Mason, Community Hub Manager and a Facilitator for Shift Change – a gender inclusive leadership training course, has been working with the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg for 25 years doing everything from cleaning toilets to managing the construction of new facilities. He is a strong advocate who believes in leveraging his privilege to advance gender equity through awareness and responding to community needs.

Allyssa Focht is an experienced Project Coordinator with a strong commitment to supporting equity-priority groups in the skilled trades. Currently, she serves as a Regional Coordinator for the Apprentice Integration and Development Program with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America – Canadian District.

Allyssa began her career in the skilled trades sector at the Office to Advance Women Apprentices (OAWA) in Manitoba, where she discovered her passion for fostering opportunities and career pathways for women and other underrepresented groups in the trades. Through her work, she has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion within the industry.

Prior to her involvement in skilled trades programs, Allyssa gained extensive experience in public service. She worked as a Constituency Assistant for MLA Matt Wiebe for Concordia from 2015 to 2019 and held various roles with the Manitoba New Democratic Party during the 2011 and 2019 provincial elections.

Allyssa is a graduate of Kelsey Adult Learning Centre and has honed her administrative and business skills through specialized training programs.

A proud mother, Allyssa resides in Winnipeg, Manitoba, with her two sons, Kion (14) and Sabastian (12). She remains dedicated to creating meaningful change within her community and empowering individuals to pursue fulfilling careers in the skilled trades.

Emma Pollard is a Journeyman Scaffolder and is the Project Director for The Office to Advance Women Apprentices. Born and raised in Fort McMurray, AB, Emma comes from a family deeply rooted in the Skilled Trades, including her mother, who began her career in the construction industry in the 1980s. Emma’s extensive experience on the tools and various leadership roles within the field led her to work directly with her Union, ultimately paving the way to her current position.
“I want to help others get started in a career that can support themselves and their families. There is a place for everyone to succeed, and I want to be the change I wish to see in the world.”

Alison manages the LauncHER into Trades initiative at First Peoples Development Inc. Prior to joining FPDI, she worked at Economic Development Winnipeg, assisting local businesses in meeting their labour needs. Given the current labour situation in our province, her new role has shifted to focus on supporting women apprentices and increasing female participation in trades. She believes that pursuing one’s passions shouldn’t be difficult. “I think now is the ideal time to dismantle all the barriers and stereotypes that hold women back. If women want to enter trades, they have our complete support!”

Alyssa has been with Manitoba Women in Construction (MWC) since 2017 and is the current Chair of the volunteer board. She began her career in the industry as a Project Coordinator with Bird Construction after graduating from the Civil Engineering Technology program at Red River College. She then moved into estimating where she achieved her Gold Seal certification and has since taken on the role of Pre-Construction Manager. “Growing up I never really considered a career in construction” she explains of her decision to get involved with MWC. “I joined MWC to connect with other industry professionals and to help promote to young women and girls that the construction industry can be a valuable and fulfilling career option.”

Nina Widmer has been pursuing her passion in the Masonry industry for the past 19 years. She was the first female in Manitoba to get her Red Seal ticket in bricklaying. The trades have given her the experience, knowledge and opportunity to grow her business, Widmer Castings, with her partner, for the past 10 years. She has continuously strived to encourage young women to pick up the tools, join the trades and pave their own way in the industry. 

Christina is a Red Seal Steamfitter, born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With an industrial background, she has worked on many major projects and pipelines spanning across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and NW Ontario.

After the birth of her son and upon returning to work, Christina taught Plumbing and Pipe Trades with the Winnipeg School Division for 6 years. She has been working with the Piping Industry Technical College for a decade and loves her current role as Digital Education Development Instructor.  supporting instructing staff, course and technical development, social media production, trades promotion, and outreach.

Christina is the current Chair of Build Together Manitoba and has been an active member since 2015. She has been passionate about encouraging, mentoring, and supporting women currently in or interested in a career in the trades. She has spoken publicly as a major supporter of Women in construction and continues to advocate for equal rights, opportunity, and pay in this industry.

Christina has an appreciation for nature, a green thumb, and loves to camp with her 11-year-old son, Grayson. Preferring self-propelled activities, Christina enjoys cycling, paddling, climbing, hiking and has a goal of summiting Mt. Baldy in her lifetime.

Jaime Mann is a partner in a commercial construction company, busy mom of 3, and founder of The Amaryllis Project, a coaching and advisory firm focused on building better leadership through connection – both to self and others. Jaime is committed to helping high-performance leaders transform themselves on topics like mental health, self-leadership, confidence, emotional regulation and reframing the internal narratives that hold them back from truly living.

Utilizing research-backed methodologies and proven tools and techniques, Jaime brings a fusion of positive psychology, leadership psychology, behavioral science, mental health science, and self-belief work to her clients.

Jaime is an Associate Certified Coach (ACC), Member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and the Canadian Positive Psychology Association (CPPA), Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree of Professional Studies (MPS) in the Psychology of Leadership at Penn State University.

A lover of all things sparkly, Jaime is hard-pressed to leave vintage rhinestone brooches in their display case, or resist the allure of anything sequinned (much to her kids’ dismay.) She adores reading, and loves karaoke and cats (not necessarily at the same time.)

https://theamaryllisproject.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theamaryllisproject/

Shannon is a seasoned executive leadership coach and team facilitator with over 20 years of diverse experience in education and business. Her corporate leadership journey culminated in the C-Suite of a prominent Crown Corporation, where she served as the Chief Human Resource Officer and Vice President of Product, and was identified for CEO succession. She led people-strategies that enabled the successful adoption of many multi-million-dollar business transformation programs. Shannon was a trusted advisor to the President and CEO driving a swift and impactful culture shift across the Corporation. She firmly believes that effective leadership requires strong strategy and ultimately emanates from within, a philosophy she imparts through her coaching and facilitation practice.

Shannon partners with leaders and teams, facilitating transformative learning experiences that foster trust, clarity, and results. Whether virtually, in-person, or at Red Chair Ranch where she partners with her horses as co-coaches, individuals experience profound shifts as Shannon helps them explore leadership from the head and the heart.

Shannon holds a Master of Education (Adult Education) from the University of Manitoba, and the Executive Certificate in Management from the Smith School of Business, Queen’s University. Her coaching certifications include Certified Professional Coach (CPC) through the College of Executive Coaching, and a Certification in Equine Facilitated Learning and Coaching (EFLC) through the Academy for Coaching with Horses in Colorado.

Since Nov 2017, Alanna Marklund has worked with the UA Canadian National office in Ottawa, ON as the representative for Youth, Diversity and Indigenous Relations. Her role works to expand opportunities in the UA for underrepresented groups entering the trades. She collaborates with the UA Canada training department to develop curriculum designed to improve awareness and educate on the needs of a diverse and inclusive workforce. Additionally, she works with various programs to encourage the retention of skilled trades workers and underrepresented groups, as well as initiatives that encourage youth of all backgrounds to enter the piping trades. Alanna is also involved with UA Canada’s National Wellness Program, which provides benefits for maternity, parental, pregnancy and mental health programs for UA members and their families.

Alanna is a Red-Seal endorsed Welder with Grade-B Pressure Welding certification. She spent her early career in pipe fabrication. In 2015, Alanna started her career at Alberta Pipe Trades College as welding instructor where she delivered various welding curricula to apprenticeship students. During her apprenticeship, Alanna competed in the UA International Apprenticeship

Competition in Ann Arbor, MI, in the category of welding. She was the first woman to compete at the competition in its 50- plus year history, and she was awarded the Allyn Parmenter and George Bliss UA Directors of Training Award.

This award recognizes an apprentice who demonstrates exceptional leadership and honors the ideals set forth by the UA Standard for Excellence. She began her career with the United Association in 2012 with Local 488 in Edmonton AB.

Lorraine Cook (Operating/Electrical Technician) grew up watching her dad work on the Kelsey Generating Station while living in Kelsey until she was 5 years old before moving to Gillam. Lorraine spoke Cree as her primary language and learned English when starting Grade 1. Her dad would show her how to use tools and introduce her to fixing equipment, and it was at this young age that Lorraine knew she was interested in trades.

Lorraine followed her dream of pursuing a career in the trades while raising three children and going to school at the same time, all while maintaining high marks. Currently working at Long Spruce Generating Station as an Operating/Electrical Technician, Lorraine has worked for Manitoba Hydro for 22 years in various roles. She also is  a part of Manitoba Hydro’s volunteer firefighting team. Lorraine has gained many skills along the way and takes the opportunity to share her knowledge by mentoring women in trades and attending career events and presentations. Throughout her career, Lorraine has learned to adapt to working in a male-dominated field while being a mother and a caregiver at the same time. She works hard, does not give up when times are tough, and is eager to continue being an advocate for tradeswomen.

Samantha is a Red Seal Carpenter working at Bockstael Construction Ltd.. She entered the construction industry with zero jobsite experience in 2014 after completing the Pre-employment program at Red River College. Since graduating, Samantha has built her career with Bockstael, who have helped her grow & achieve her childhood dreams of becoming a Carpenter. She grew up watching her handy-man Dad do work around the house, often handing him tools & always being in awe of the end results. Her desire to enter the trades never diminished, even while it wasn’t encouraged through high school & after seeing the lack of representation of women in trades at college.
Samantha joined MWC to find and help contribute toward a community where you could meet other women who chose a similar career path. Now almost 10 years later, from being a member, volunteer, trades outreach committee member, and now Director of the Trades Outreach Committee, Samantha has just as much passion as she did back then to show that women can choose the trades & can succeed here. Since becoming a mom to a daughter 2 years ago, she has a new drive to show that this industry can be a suitable one for not only a mother returning to work, but also while being pregnant – Helping pave the way for both employee & employer to feel comfortable and safe in this situation. Outside of her day job Samantha is a wife, group fitness instructor, and blue bomber fan who loves exploring her spirituality, being in nature & implementing ways to live more kindly and sustainably with the earth.

Jacquelyn Oduro is the Director of the MHCA WorkSafely Program, bringing over 15 years of diverse consulting experience in heavy civil, retail, manufacturing industries, and more. Before joining MHCA, she served as Safety Program Director of the Sales and Service Safety Association. Jacquelyn holds multiple safety certifications, including Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP), and was recognized as one of Canada’s Top Women in Safety in 2023. She currently serves as the Chair of the Industry Based Safety Program (IBSP) Council. As a mother of three, Jacquelyn is passionate about creating safe and inclusive workplaces for women and underrepresented groups in the construction industry. One of her professional goals is to increase the percentage of women working in the construction industry, particularly in field roles, by advocating for supportive policies and programs.

The Munro Group is a Canadian collection of development-focused businesses. It consists of Hugh Munro Construction – a heavy civil construction company, FortWhyte Lowbedding – a specialty hauling company, Lily Field Quarry – an aggregate resource supplier, and ClearSecure Distribution & Manufacturing – the distributor for RockGlass, and Security Screens.

Colleen has worked in the family business, Hugh Munro Construction (HMC), since 1977. She was named Secretary/Treasurer in 1982 and became President in 2008.

HMC has been in operation since 1959, some of the high-profile projects include:

– Red River Floodway Expansion (2002)

– CentrePort Canada Way x West Perimeter Connection (2012)

– Lake St. Martin Outlet Channel Access Road (2016)

Colleen has developed many partnerships with Indigenous peoples and has signed partnership agreements with a multitude of communities and is working with Manitoba Construction Sector Council in training newcomers. Through her expertise and industry knowledge, Colleen provides education and training opportunities for community members on remote job sites to help promote economic development.

The Munro Group has worked throughout Manitoba, Northwestern Ontario, and Saskatchewan.

Colleen is a pioneer for women in the industry. She was the first woman to be appointed Chair of the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association Board of Directors (1996), and she is the current (2022) Chair of the Manitoba Construction Sector Council and the Manitoba Women’s Advisory Council and appointed an Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the 38th Engineering Division.

Bonnie Douglas, PMP
Executive Director and Senior Project Manager, CCWESTT
(Canadian Coalition of Women in Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology)

Bonnie’s experience in engineering and leadership in food manufacturing developed her passion for solving problems, transforming the workplace, and advocating for women in the sector. She transitioned to CCWESTT as a Project Manager, and is now Executive Director for the national coalition and is proud to be using her skills to support the work of accelerating change for gender equity in science, engineering, trades, and technology.

Nermine Awad holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts, studied Administration at Red River College, and has over 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Previously, Nermine took on the role as the Construction Sector Coordinator for the EmpowHER program, worked closely with the participants thought different aspects of the program. Currently, Nermine is the Financial Manager for the Manitoba Construction Sector Council and remains connected to the Women’s Programs run by the Sector.

Andrea Aiello is the Executive Director of Workforce Development at CME Manitoba. Over 25 years Andrea worked from the manufacturing production floor up through admin to senior HR and leadership roles. Having lived experience as a Woman in Manufacturing, today she and her team create programs, opportunities and connections that enable more people, from more backgrounds, find meaningful careers in manufacturing.

Adam Smoluk has been with Film Training Manitoba since 2006 and was promoted six times to the senior executive position. Adam graduated with a Business Administration diploma from McMaster University and with honours from Red River College Polytechnic’s Human Resource Management and Management Development programs. He earned a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation and a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-SCP) Senior Certified Professional designation. He completed micro-credential certificates in career and employment coaching from the University of Winnipeg and Leading Through Conflict, Emotional Intelligence, and French Essentials from Western University.

He was selected to RRC Polytechnic’s billboard campaign for distinguished alumni and he delivered commencement addresses at two of his alma maters, McMaster University and RRC Polytechnic. He studied on scholarship at the British American Drama Academy at Oxford University and was the youngest person ever selected to the National Screen Institute of Canada’s Features First Program for professional filmmakers. He was the sole writer from the Americas awarded selection to the 2016 eQuinoxe Europe International Screenwriting Program in Lindau, Germany. He served on the executive of Youth Employment Services Manitoba, the ACTRA Manitoba’s council, and is the former Chair for the United Way of Winnipeg’s GenNext Council for young community leaders. He was a key organizer of the first GenNext Summit held in North America.

He currently serves as the Vice-Chair for the Advisory Board for Essential Skills Manitoba, The Manitoba Construction Sector Council’s Educators Working Group, and the board of directors for the Westland Foundation, which provides post-secondary scholarships for inner Winnipeg students. He also currently serves on the Advisory Committee for REEL Canada, which promotes Canadian Cinema.

Adam has extensive experience providing programming support to post-secondary schools, he has been named as the Chair of the Advisory Committee overseeing of Red River College Polytechnic’s Digital Film and Media Production Post-graduate program, Chair of Assiniboine Community College’s Interactive Media Arts program’s advisory committee. He also currently serves on RRC Polytechnic’s Information and Cultural Industries Strategic Council, and the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology’s micro-credential industry advisory committee. He served on McMaster University’s micro-credential review committee, and he has served on a programming review committee for McMaster. For over a decade, Adam has served a mentor for the University of Manitoba’s Career Mentorship program.

Adam was a recipient of the Future Leaders of Manitoba award; he was awarded an Investors Group scholarship for leadership studies at The Peter Lougheed Leadership Institute at the Banff Centre, the Manitoba Federation of Labour’s Al Cerilli scholarship, a scholarship to attend the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Winnipeg Program and an RBC Foundation scholarship to attend governance training with the Institute of Corporate Directors.

His debut film, HORSETHIEVES was awarded the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at the Winnipeg International Film Festival. His second feature film, FOODLAND was acquired by Shaw and premiered on the Independent Film Channel (IFC). The film was broadcast on Super Channel and designated to the Gem selections for critically acclaimed films. He served as a director for the Frantic Films and Discovery Channel’s true-crime series IN PLAIN SIGHT. Adam contributed profiles of the Right Honourable Edward Schreyer and Manitoba Film & Music’s former CEO Carole Vivier for THE HEART OF WINNIPEG, a book that profiles community leaders.

Allison Bile graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a Bachelor of Art’s degree in Theatre and French.

Allison gained an interest in filmmaking through her involvement with the Winnipeg Film Group by attending workshops on experimental filmmaking and volunteering on short films in the costume department.

In 2009, Allison served as a board member and Secretary on the Winnipeg Film Group. She has also served as volunteer for Cancer Care Manitoba.  In 2003, she completed an internship with FTM in the costume department and was a Permittee with IATSE 856 in costumes.

Allison joined FTM in 2006 and has been promoted to various positions within the organization. She has completed courses on Arts and Culture Management through the University of Winnipeg and is the process of obtaining a certificate on Human Resource Management through Red River College.

Jen is a Coordinator, Industry Training, at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) where she works closely with industry partners to create and deliver impactful programming for adult learners. She transitioned from the private sector to MITT nearly 10 years ago, where she continues to hone her leadership, coordination, and organizational skills.

Jen is dedicated to ensuring that students receive an exceptional learning experience, with an emphasis on student support. She is especially passionate about programming that focuses on training women for careers in the trades, and that make positive impacts on their lives.

Jen is currently pursuing her Certificate in Applied Management, and has been a long-time volunteer on committees within her children’s schools, and the community

Mary Fuke, Program Manager at the CWB Welding Foundation, has worked in various roles in skilled trades and apprenticeship programs for many years. She has worked in both Ontario and Alberta, working with government, educational and community organizations such as Six Nations Polytechnic and Women Building Futures.  Mary holds a Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership from Western University, and a Master of Public Administration from Queen’s University.  Mary is a strong advocate for all skilled trades professions, with a strong passion for promoting women in trades.

Sampada Kukade is the VP of Corporate Communications and Stakeholder Engagement at Skills for Change. She has been at Skills for Change since 2015.

Sampada has over 20 years of non-profit sector experience in marketing, communications, leadership development and strategic partnerships. She holds a Bachelors in Arts at the University of Western Ontario and a post-graduate certificate in Marketing and Events Planning from George Brown College.

Prior to working at Skills for Change, Sampada led communications, province-wide events and a leadership program at the Ontario Medical Association. Being passionate about politics, Sampada also previously ran as a political candidate at the provincial level.

She is extremely passionate about driving social justice issues and advancing the social inequities of underserved communities. She works with employers on developing Equity, Diversity and Inclusion programs through workforce development.

Sampada currently serves as a Toronto Region Board Director for OCASI and is a Board Member for FORA Network for Change.

In her spare time, Sampada teaches yoga as a certified yoga instructor, with a specific focus on helping manage chronic disease. She is also a mother of two young boys.

Originally a hairstylist from a small town in Quebec, Chantal first moved to the prairies to learn English. She landed in North Battleford Saskatchewan where she learned conversational English and the trade lingo like frizz, fried ends, and updos. Her clients knew to keep being patient with her because with scissors in hands, she could ruin their self-esteem for the next six months in just a few snips!

After North Battleford, she moved to Winnipeg where she continued hairstyling until she began her educator career as a vocational teacher.  Her first year teaching in Swan River, Manitoba was followed by seventeen more at Winnipeg Technical College (WTC) now the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT).

Chantal then made a successful move into administration, culminating in her appointment as Dean of WTC’s Henlow Campus. In 2011, she was appointed Dean Continuing Education and Corporate Training with responsibility for Adult Learning Centres, and Osborne Village Resource Employment Centre. Today, she has oversight for trade exploration courses delivered in French to students from the Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobaine, MITT’s English Language Institute, which offers English for Academic Purposes to international students, and MITT’s English Language Centre which offers English language classes to newcomers.  Through her work, she has had the opportunity to forge successful relationships with several corporate partners, developing customized training programs and long-term partnerships with organizations as varied as the Manitoba Construction Sector Council, Manitoba Apprenticeship, Workplace Education Manitoba, Corrections Canada, Manitoba Justice, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, Southeast College, and the Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobaine.  Chantal accomplished her educational goals by attaining a Bachelor of Education degree followed by a Masters degree in Educational Administration.

Chantal has a passion for new initiatives that support learners in the pursuit of their educational, career, and personal goals. She is sensitive to the needs of adolescents, adults, immigrants, newcomers, and international students.  Having earned education credentials part-time while holding a full-time job and learning English as an adult, Chantal has much appreciation for the challenges and rewards that learning additional skills and languages exemplify. Chantal loves assisting others with developing their careers by enhancing their technical or language skills.

Colin Fraser has been involved in international/newcomer education in a teaching, student support or administrative role for over 25 years.  He is currently the Manager for the English Language Institute at MITT.

Sandi Howell is a systems thinker dedicated to helping Canadians develop critical workplace skills. Recognized across Canada for successful responses to workforce development issues for under-represented groups.  Currently she is the Director of Business Development/Innovation at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology.

Kendra Wray has taught individuals learning English both in Canada and abroad for over 25 years. Her career and experiences have given her a unique understanding of the language learner’s needs. She holds a BA and MA in Intercultural Studies and a TESOL Certificate. Kendra has published lesson plans with TESOL Press and two textbooks with Oxford University Press.  She is a featured instructor in MITT’s English for Construction Purposes program.

Originally employed in the holistic healing field, Samantha made a significant career change and went on to work as an office assistant. Today, more than 20 years later, Samantha is a successful entrepreneur who co- owns Virkus Painting, a thriving business which offers specialized interior and exterior painting and decorating services where she is in charge of project management, procurement, and staffing.  Samantha is a strong advocate for women and newcomers entering the trades. Her passion has led her to become involved with the EmpowHER program which assist participants to develop skills for future success.

Originally from Eritrea, Mesno moved to Canada 2 years ago.  Born a craftsperson in her homeland, she took sewing courses when younger and worked as a professional sewer in a local fabric plant. Upon arrival to Canada Mesno realized that there was not much need for her trade and entered the EmpowHER Program.  She very much enjoyed her education and training. Once they were completed she began working with Virkus Painting.  She has been employed with Virkus for 7 months now and greatly enjoys her new career choice.

Andrea is proud Metis woman from the north end of Winnipeg.  She is a graduate of the University of Winnipeg, holding a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Political Science. She has a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design from Athabasca University and is currently enrolled in the Master of Arts – Interdisciplinary Studies (Equity Studies focus) program at Athabasca University. She is a Certified Life Coach and has completed a Certificate in Mediation from the Resolution Skills Centre in Winnipeg.

With her passion for education and training Andrea teaches with Red River College, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology and Workplace Education Manitoba.  She currently services on the Board of Directors of the Community Education Development Association of Winnipeg (CEDA) and the board of Skills Manitoba.

Employed by Manitoba Hydro for 26 years, Andrea was recognized as a leading expert in the recruitment and retention of Indigenous employees in the trades and other Hydro careers. She was a training consultant for the Manitoba Construction Sector Council, facilitating Job Readiness training for Indigenous workers in northern Manitoba. Most recently, she served as Project Coordinator for the Office to Advance Women Apprentices in Manitoba.

Loni Petrowski is a Red Seal Welder whose career has spanned 25 years. In that time her career journey has taken her to various workplaces, including Griffin Wheel and Winnipeg Transit, where she spent ten years. In 2023, she transitioned into a leadership role, becoming a Welding Supervisor at New Flyer Industries. Loni is a strong advocate for mentorship and has volunteered her time to support junior tradeswomen through organizations like the Office to Advance Women Apprentices and the Women of Steel program. She has also made presentations to women in trades classes, aiming to build enthusiasm and support for those entering the field. After 25 years as a welder, Loni reflects on the challenges she faced and wishes she had had access to many of the resources available today. Driven by this, she is dedicated to being a source of support for other women in the trades.  Loni lives on a 60-acre off-grid farm with her family and has a passion for the outdoors. In her spare time, she enjoys paintball and airsoft with her team of friends.

Trisha Kulathungam was born and raised in Winnipeg and has been involved in th e manufacturing and philanthropy industries in Manitoba. She proudly works for her father’s companies, SCT Welding, Laser and Manufacturing Co, and Strong Electric Manufacturing. She began working for her dad as a teen receptionist and has worked her way up to a management role at both companies. Philanthropy has played an important role in Trisha’s life since elementary. She began volunteering at a young age and continues to volunteer and fundraise for various community projects and important causes. Trisha’s philanthropic interests inspired her to create her own charity centred around scholarship access and student well-being. She created The Higher Learning Foundation Inc. in 2013 and since then, she has dedicated most of her charitable resources to stude nts, schools and after school programs. Since building Higher Learning Foundation, Trisha is now in the process of becoming a certified Yoga and Meditation teacher. Through HLF, Trisha will be facilitating a yoga, meditation and self -care program at various schools in Manitoba. She will also be teaching these skills to students as a way to raise donations for HLF. Outside of HLF, Trisha’s philanthropic efforts are directed at creative place-making in the inner-city, supporting local women’s shelters, hosting various food and clothing drives for local charities, and most recently, establishing a research lab to test how mindfulness and meditation can improve students’ well-being and academic performance. 

Tanya Palson is the Executive Director of Manitoba Building Trades, the provincial council representing 13 affiliated skilled trade unions. Formerly the Director of Stakeholder Engagement and Workforce Development at Manitoba Building Trades, she believes in promoting community development through union labour, and is committed to the organizations’ focus on increasing union representation in the skilled construction trades. Tanya brings with her a background in Public Policy, Indigenous Community Development, and Business Communcations. Born and raised in Southwest Manitoba, now living in Winnipeg with her partner, two kids under 4, and a high-energy doodle.

Morgan is the HR Supervisor at Nelson River Construction Inc. and has spent the majority of her career in the construction industry.  Upon graduating highschool, she was able to work 6 summers for Nelson River in their quarries and was able to garner an appreciation for the construction world.  Following graduation from university, she dipped her toes into manufacturing but always felt a pull back to construction.  After a number of years at PCL, she was given the chance to re-join Nelson River and jumped at the opportunity.   Her grandmother operated a crusher for NRC some 40-50 years ago when it was uncommon to see women in the industry.  She has a passion for recruitment and wants to help create a diverse workforce in construction!

Morgan has a Business Administration Diploma and a Bachelor of Commerce Degree majoring in Human Resource Management/Industrial Relations and Management of Organization.  She holds both her CPHR and SHRM-SCP designations and sits on the Workforce Development Committee with the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, is a board member of her local daycare as well as the secretary-treasurer of her local wildlife association.

In her spare time, she enjoys hockey, hunting, going to the cabin and spending as much time as possible outdoors with her family!

Roxanne Gross is a visionary Senior Digital Construction Coordinator with an outstanding record of driving technological innovation and efficiency in the construction industry. Her deep expertise in industry-leading tools such as Revit, Navisworks, Assemble, Fuzor, AutoCAD, BIM 360 Design Collaboration, and Revizto, combined with her proficiency in leveraging advanced technologies like drones and laser scanners, positions her as an invaluable leader in digital transformation on complex projects.

Roxanne’s solid academic foundation in Environmental Design, earned from the prestigious Faculty of Architecture at the University of Manitoba, underscores her ability to integrate technical excellence with a profound understanding of design principles. Her commitment to advancing the field of digital construction is matched by her passion for fostering collaboration and innovation across multidisciplinary teams.

Beyond her professional achievements, Roxanne is dedicated to a balanced and fulfilling life. She finds joy in tending to her chickens, preserving food through canning, and expressing creativity through baking and gardening. An avid traveler, she cherishes exploring new places, spending quality time with her family, and enjoying peaceful walks with her dog, Dusty.”

Tanya Maric is an accomplished VP of Operations with over 25 years of experience in the residential construction industry. As the owner of a home building company in its sixth decade of business, they have a reputation of delivering custom-designed and exceptionally-crafted homes with outstanding client experiences. Tanya’s specialization is in operational efficiency & finance but is actively involved in all steps of the customer’s journey, ensuring excellence in every detail by overseeing projects from inception to completion.

In addition to their professional accomplishments, Tanya is deeply committed to fostering a positive & passionate work environment, enhancing the team’s collaborative approach of designing and constructing homes. This dedication ensures that both the team and clients aspire for exceptional results in every project. Currently, they are focused on implementing new software with the goal of increasing the frequency and accuracy of communication between the design team, the site team, and clients.

As the leader & steward of a long-established company, Tanya continues to drive innovation while upholding the legacy of craftsmanship that have defined their business. To learn more or inquire about their design-build services, please visit marichomes.com.