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ETOBICOKE — Support Ontario Youth (SOY), which aims to attract and assist apprentices throughout their journey, providing mentorship and a range of supports, recently introduced a new section on their website aimed specifically at women in the trades.

The new web portal, , includes information and the opportunity to speak directly to females in or looking to enter the skilled trades.

It also addresses support for employers, showing why female apprentices can be valuable assets, with information on the supports SOY can offer throughout the hiring, training, mentoring and funding process, states a release.

There is also a one-of-a-kind networking page, linking various organizations that specialize in promoting, supporting and funding women’s apprenticeships.

Brandi Ferenc, a licensed refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic and a mentor with SOY, has over 14 years of experience in the trades and mentorship to female apprentices in various trades.

“Mentorship is key for the recruitment and retention of women into the skilled trades. It is a unique experience as a female navigating a male-dominated landscape and having the support of a mentor can ensure they thrive as opposed to just survive,” explained Ferenc in a statement.

While change may be slow, significant steps are being taken in the right direction. With this new website, SOY hopes to strengthen that direction for all women who need to understand where to start and what supports are out there to ensure their success within the skilled trades, states the release.