A Diverse Program to Promote Equity
Organized from May 27 to 31, this awareness week was supported by key stakeholders such as the APCHQ and the MTMD, featuring several noteworthy activities:
- Webinar "EDI" hosted by Bérénice St-Martin and Chaymae Chraibi, which demystified the various dimensions of workplace inclusion.
- 5 to 7 Conference with Judive Jean-Gilles, focused on the integration of women in construction, in an atmosphere conducive to enriching exchanges.
The discussion panel on May 30th was one of the highlights, bringing together passionate professionals to debate the challenges and opportunities that women face in the construction industry.
Inspiring Speakers
Four women with diverse backgrounds shared their experiences and perspectives:
- Émily Michaud, mechanic at the Rolling Equipment Management Centre, MTMD
- Nathalie Laperrière, rolling equipment supply technician, MTMD
- Nerlande Jules, truck and heavy equipment operator, MTMD
- Sarra Fekih, associate architect at COHÉSIO Architecture and president of Les Elles de la Construction
These professionals addressed crucial topics such as persistent biases, the resilience required on the job, and strategies to promote equality in a sector historically dominated by men.
Challenges But Also Progress
The construction sector remains demanding for women, but notable progress is visible. In 2023, the Commission de la construction du Québec announced a record number of 7,470 women working on construction sites, representing nearly 3.8% of the workforce, a significant increase compared to 2022.
Key points discussed during the panel:
- The daily obstacles faced by women on job sites and in offices.
- The unique skills women bring: attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to collaborate.
- The importance of work-life balance and tailored support policies.
- The benefits of diversity for more productive and innovative teams.
An Inspiring Panel Driving Change
This event demonstrated that, despite the challenges, women play a crucial role in transforming the construction industry. The rich and inspiring exchanges between the speakers and participants highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive and equitable environment.
Watch the full video of the panel "At the Heart of Diversity: Women in Construction" right here and dive into the inspiring discussions!
