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Thank you to everyone for your support! VIEW GALA PHOTOS #GiveToGain #IWD2026 GIVE TO GAIN CLICK TO LEARN MORE Awards | Keynote Speaker | Silent Auction | Music & Awards WE STAND FOR A MORE GENDER EQUAL WORLD! Click Here to learn more Click to view Introducing the Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Rose Anguiano slide Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Zayd and Mohamed Nadine Makai and Naomi Jasmine and Sienna Dan Walker and Lilah Terry Karen Jimmie and Jasmine Bill purple background IWD logo IWD Gala 2024 IWD Faces of WEST IWD Gala 2025 Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World Gender Equal World

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Windsor Essex Community Foundation

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST)

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) was developed in 1984 as a response to disproportionately high levels of unemployment among women and the difficulties experienced by women attempting to enter the workforce.

During the course of development, it became apparent that the most disadvantaged women, in terms of training and employment opportunities, were visible minorities. As a result of those findings, a plan was implemented to create a technical and life skills training program specific to the needs of visible minority women residing in Windsor-Essex. WEST, a non-profit corporation and registered charitable organization, is the realization of that initiative.

With funding from Human Resources Development Canada, WEST opened its doors in February 1987, offering unique training opportunities for women from Windsor-Essex and around the globe. Through skills enhancement and volunteer placements, visible minority women have been prepared for entry to employment and have moved closer to achieving the success they desire.

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UNIFOR Trades Exploration Week for Women was full of great vibes on Day 4, as creativity and craftsmanship came together through custom wind chimes! Participants stepped into the shop to design and build their own pieces from start to finish. With support from an incredible team, they worked through measuring, cutting, drilling, and finishing – bringing each project to life with personality, colour and skill!

After a morning welcome from Dave Cassidy, Skilled Trades Partnership Advisor for Skilled Trades Ontario, the day continued with a meaningful panel with WEST alumni Monica, Amanda, and Georgia. They shared real experiences from their pathways in the trades, offering practical advice on staying connected, speaking up, and moving forward with confidence.

In partnership with our community, we continue opening doors and creating opportunities for women to thrive in skilled trades.

Ready to get started? Applications are open now!

Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Women: www.westofwindsor.com/electrical-pre-apprenticeship-program-for-women

Skills Training in Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Sheet Metal for Women (STARS): www.westofwindsor.com/skills-training-in-air-conditioning-refrigeration-and-sheet-metal-for-women...

Introduction to Construction & Craft Trades for Women: www.westofwindsor.com/introduction-to-construction-and-craft-trades-for-women-icctw/

#WEST #WhyNotHer #WomenInSkilledTrades #Local444 #ONJobs @ontarioatwork
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17 hours ago

During an interactive @picsume.ca workshop, our EDGE youth explored resume building, personal branding, and what it takes to stand out in today’s job market. From building confidence to gaining real-world skills, they’re becoming more employable and career-ready every day. The future is bright, and they are ready for it! #NewcomerYouth #YouthEmpowerment ... See MoreSee Less

19 hours ago

Day 3 of UNIFOR Trade Exploration Week for Women is now in the books, and it has been filled with engaging activities and meaningful conversations at @local444unifor!

It is exciting to see so many women diving into the skilled trades and enjoying the experience. Watching participants showcase their interview skills, and then build their own working LEGO robots has been truly inspiring.

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to take your first step toward a fulfilling career in the trades—apply now!

Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Women: www.westofwindsor.com/electrical-pre-apprenticeship-program-for-women

Skills Training in Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Sheet Metal for Women (STARS): www.westofwindsor.com/skills-training-in-air-conditioning-refrigeration-and-sheet-metal-for-women...

Introduction to Construction & Craft Trades for Women: www.westofwindsor.com/introduction-to-construction-and-craft-trades-for-women-icctw/

#WhyNotHer #WomenInTrades #Local444 #StClairCollege @ontarioatwork
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2 days ago
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