So I finally decided that I would take the time to go in to detail on what exactly do I do for a living. In this blog ill write about how and why I became a carpenter and a bit about what it’s like to be a female in the industry.
Now I won’t say it that it wasn’t a little bit of a chock when I decided to go from working in a cozy office in Gatineau, Quebec to working in the blistering cold of Edmonton, Alberta 5 years ago. I was just about to turn 20 years old when I decided to join my older brother out west, he was kind enough to give me a job doing roof trusses. I won’t lie, back then I didn’t think I would be where I am today.
I won’t sugar coat it. My days on a construction site have often been hard. Between the amount of sexist people who still exist in the industry and just the basic conditions of a construction worker, I’ve thought of leaving the industry so many times. I’ve been under paid, gotten my butt grabbed, I’ve been harassed, yelled at, I’ve hurt my self, gotten heatstrokes, been flooded to my underwear and cold to the point where I thought my fingers we’re breaking ,the list goes on. It would be a lie to say this career hasn’t made me cry. But I love it.
Yes I know, that sounds insane, but I really do I love my job.
I love working outdoors. I love building houses. I love working with my hands and learning everyday. As much as I hate it, I love the rain falling on my face on a hot summer day , or the beautiful snowflakes, insulting the sound on a job site during a snowstorm when most have stayed home. I love that I can work with Derick and have him by my side through all of my challenges.I started off as a labour who barely knew how to hammer in a nail to becoming part of the 1% of female carpenters in Canada.
Today I work for Vineuve construction, a wonderful company that makes me feel safe and respected as women and gives Derick and I the opportunity to work in different towns and Islands. I can’t express how important yet hard that is to find.
My word to you, if you want to enter the industry, do it. Keep you head high and don’t let anyone talk you down. It might be the best decision you’ve ever made.
WoW what a awesome story!!! I’m also from Gatineau (Aylmer). I moved out here 14 years ago next week to join my little brother. I didn’t get into the trades until 2019, but it’s the best decision I’ve ever taken. I’m currently working as a first year apprentice carpenter in Calgary and attending school next week.
Your story is awesome and truly inspiring. I’m looking forward to reading more of your blogs.
Amazing !! What a small world !! I’m so happy you decided to become a carpenter the industry needs more strong women to set an example on how it’s done !! You go girl and chase you dreams ❤️❤️❤️
Aww so proud of you sash ❤️ Always had mad respect for you and knew you would kill whatever you did ! Hells to the yeahhhh 🤙
Thank you so much Mo ❤️❤️❤️ That means so much
Thanks for sharing, I’m currently attending em power women in trades, it’s fun and interesting. I love working with my hands. I would love to connect with you one day.
Usline Anthony
That sounds amazing, feel free to contact me anytime, my info is on the site !!
Hi Usline,
I was part of the first cohort of the EmPower program back in March of 2019. When I started the program, I was already leaning towards carpentry but it wasn’t a sealed deal. Fast track to 1 ½ later…I am a registered first year apprentice carpenter and starting school in 1 week.
Follow your dreams and your heart and don’t EVER let anyone tell you that you can’t do it.
Cheers,
Awesome work lady! You are a great representation of a strong female in a male dominated workplace, keep that beautiful chin up 🙂
You are truly the sweetest ❤️🙏
You’re a badass & I love it!
I just finished my morning mediation, which I then follow with some form of motivation/inspiration and today was on living with passion.
Then I open my email to see your latest blog entry…how appropriate AND TRUE.
Enjoy the ride 🤙🏻
Thank you so much !!!