Amid a booming construction industry with increasing job opportunities across Canada, there is still a significant gap in the labour force as women are vastly outnumbered. Recent statistics from Build Force Canada show that one in 50 women in Canada earns a living in construction. In 2021, an estimated total of 189,300 women worked in construction. As more and more emphasis is placed on reducing the barriers of women entering construction, the future seems promising as the number of women entering the field is steadily increasing. 

International Women’s Day is recognized worldwide on March 8. This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity and it focuses on promoting a more gender equal and inclusive world. Over the years, Modern Niagara has benefitted from the stellar work of women on our team and we’re proud to acknowledge their accomplishments. We recently sat down with a few women across Modern Niagara to learn about their experiences navigating the construction industry and their insights on the future.  

Mikaela Vause works as a Field Recruitment Specialist at Modern Niagara. In previous years, she worked as an Apprentice Plumber on the development of a hospital project in Vancouver. For Mikaela, she finds great self-fulfillment in her work. Her journey in construction is one that is quite compelling and unique. 

When asked about the positive changes she’s witnessed in the industry, Mikaela recalls her experience on her first job site.  

“I was the only woman on site of a large high-rise project in downtown Vancouver. People on site almost didn’t know how to react to having a woman on site, it was pretty eye-opening to say the least. When I came to Modern Niagara, it was the first time I worked with other women in the field. In fact, the journeyperson I worked alongside was a woman. There has been a lot of great progress over the years, we have far more resources available to support women in trades. Jobsites are becoming more inclusive, with things ranging from access to washrooms all the way to workplace policies,” detailed Mikaela.  

 She goes further to highlight that although there have been significant changes, there’s still more that needs to be done. “We still have a lot of work to do but it is happening and that’s major. I feel very fortunate that I have seen these necessary shifts and continued conversations taking place. I’m also very proud to be a part of a company that truly supports women in the trades.” 

Tamara Weaver, a Health and Safety Specialist, recently reached a ten-year milestone of working with Modern Niagara. Tamara, who began working as a receptionist quickly developed an interest in health and safety. 

“Coming right out high school, I knew I wanted to be able to help people/make a difference but wasn’t entirely sure what that avenue would be. Everything else fell into place when I began working in health and safety. My interest quickly rose, and I learnt that I loved being in the field,” Tamara explained.  

For Tamara, from the time she began her career compared with more recent years, there’s been a resounding shift and change in the overall culture within the industry. “I take pride in the great culture we have here. I have seen our Calgary region continuously grow. Building relationships is key for success, whether it is internal or external relationships. Having good relationships makes those tough conversations that much easier, along with knowing you can rely on your teammates and vice versa.” 

Adding her voice to the increasing calls for more women to consider a career in construction, she points out that there is still an existing stigma. “I would like to see more women join the trades and help get rid of the “boys only” stigma,” Tamara said.  

Toyin Iyekolo, Project Coordinator (Major Projects) has worked with Modern Niagara for the past two years.  

“Right from my childhood, I developed a passion for building things, planning and problem-solving. This tailored my path to studying engineering and eventually working in the construction industry,” said Toyin.

She noted that throughout her career, she’s seen noticeable progress in the field where it concerns gender inclusion. “Over the years I have seen an increasing number of women in construction at all levels and this is progress that really excites me.” 

Toyin also reflected on the aspects of her career that she finds rewarding. “As a woman in construction, bringing my skills and experience to ensure that projects are delivered within budget and on schedule, gives me an immense sense of pride,” she mentioned. 

Looking ahead to the future of construction, Toyin feels confident that the industry will continue to evolve. Her recommendation to persons considering construction as a career path is to focus on their goals. 

“My advice to new professionals entering the construction industry is that they should be focused. If you love to solve problems, then construction is your home. My hope is that the construction industry will keep evolving and growing to meet the infrastructure demands of the growing population in Canada,” she said. 

Tiana Colantonio, Electrical Designer joined Modern Niagara in November 2022. Her decision to pursue a career in construction stemmed from her innate drive to see things evolve from conception to completion.  

“Pursuing a career in construction allowed me to be part of the entire process of a build, and to see my designs become more than just a drawing,” Tiana explained.

Acknowledging the need for more women to enter construction, Tiana remains hopeful that other young girls and women will feel motivated to consider a career in construction by witnessing others and herself excel in the industry. “As more and more women enter the field, I am proud to be a part of the growing community that is continuing to influence other young girls and women to pursue their dream careers,” she added.  

Her advice to new professionals entering the industry is to never shy away from trying something new. “Go outside your comfort zone. You may make mistakes, but you can learn from them and evolve with the ever-changing industry,” Tiana commented.  

As we reflect on the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, we are reminded of the importance of considering the difference between equality and equity. Modern Niagara remains committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment as we continue to build Canada’s infrastructure.