Historic Gift Fuels New Opportunities in the Skilled Trades
On September 12, YWCA Metro Vancouver announced the largest private donation in our organization’s history: a transformative $5.56 million gift from the Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation, in conjunction with Seaspan Shipyards. This gift enabled the launch of YWCA Higher Ground, a new employment program for women pursuing careers in the skilled trades.
The record-breaking investment will ensure hundreds of women have access to training, mentorship and wraparound supports as they embark on rewarding careers in this high-demand sector.
The announcement took place at a special edition of our Impact Series, which brought together industry leaders, partners, graduates of YWCA trades programs and community members to celebrate this milestone. The afternoon featured a panel discussion moderated by Tina Hurd, Program Manager of Higher Ground, who has extensive experience leading trades programs for women at the YWCA. The panel featured four accomplished women in the trades: Kathleen Scott, Apprenticeship Advisor with SkilledTradesBC; Lisa Scott, Red Seal Electrician and Catalyst for Apprenticeship Promotion and Progression; Lauren Pedersen, a Red Seal-certified Floor Covering Installer and YWCA Level Up alum; and Diem Nguyen, Heavy Equipment Operator and also a YWCA Level Up alum.
Each speaker shared their unique journey, from overcoming early challenges to stepping into leadership roles. A consistent theme emerged: women remain underrepresented in the trades, but with mentorship, community and supportive services, they can not only succeed, but thrive.
Higher Ground will serve 300 participants over five years through hands-on exploration, industry connections, site visits and accredited training pathways at BCIT. To reduce barriers, the program also provides wraparound services such as child care, transportation and accessibility accommodations.
“Our goal is to empower women to confidently break barriers, achieve economic independence and build sustainable careers,” said Tina Hurd.
To learn more about YWCA Higher Ground or to register, visit ywcavan.org/higher-ground or contact Tina at thurd@ywcavan.org.
