Brandi Ferenc: Retaining Women in the Trades

Join host Lisa Laronde and guest Brandi Ferenc for a conversation about retaining women in the trades. Brandi is a seasoned red seal refrigeration and air conditioning system mechanic and shares her remarkable journey within the skilled trades industry. With candor and insight, Brandi uncovers the hurdles encountered by women navigating male-dominated fields, shedding light on the pressing need for a profound cultural shift. Through her own experiences, Brandi underscores the importance of education and awareness in fostering a work environment that is not only inclusive but also respectful of diverse voices. She passionately advocates for change, urging listeners to recognize the pivotal role of allyship in dismantling barriers and fostering a more equitable landscape. Brandi stresses the vital contribution of employers in nurturing and retaining women in the trades. Drawing from her expertise, she offers practical insights into how organizations can create supportive frameworks that empower women to thrive. Tune in as Brandi shares her initiatives through Fairtrades Toolbox, a platform dedicated to promoting diversity and catalyzing change within the industry. From personal anecdotes to actionable strategies, this conversation promises to inspire and empower listeners to champion inclusivity and drive positive transformation in their respective spheres. Takeaways The skilled trades industry needs a cultural shift to create a more inclusive and respectful work environment for women. Employers should actively seek to hire and retain women in the trades, treating them as professionals and providing the necessary support and resources. Education and awareness are key in changing the behavior and attitudes towards women in male-dominated fields. Allyship from both men and women is crucial in advocating for change and creating a more diverse and inclusive industry. Fairtrades Toolbox, led by Brandi Ferenc, aims to promote diversity and change in the skilled trades industry through education, consulting, and advocacy. Find out more about Brandi's work: www.fairtradestoolbox.com Follow The Powerhouse Project: https://www.thepowerhouse-project.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thepowerhouseprojectpodcast/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD5yzE4szgWXLh_zztN6LwQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices