Ontario Building and Construction Tradeswomen Statement on International Women's Day

Women Leading the Way Virtual Panel for Tradeswomen March 5, 2026 - 6pm EST TORONTO, Feb. 25, 2026 /CNW/ - This International Women's Day, the Ontario Building and Construction Tradeswomen (OBCT) proudly celebrates the leadership, resilience, and collective power of women in the trades across Ontario. This year's theme is Give to Gain, which highlights the strength of reciprocity and collective support. When tradeswomen, organizations, and communities uplift each other through generosity, opportunities for women in the trades expand. Giving isn't about losing--it's about creating greater opportunities for all. When tradeswomen succeed, the entire industry rises together. Equity for women in construction has never been given freely--it has been earned through hard work and determination. OBCT exists because fair and equal treatment in construction is not a one-time achievement. It is something that must be continuously defended, strengthened and pushed forward. "Leadership in the trades doesn't always come with a title. It can mean speaking up on a job site, mentoring an apprentice, demanding safer work, or simply showing up for one another when it matters most. These everyday acts of leadership are what change workplaces and industries," stated Karen Pullen, Chair of OBCT. At a time when progress can feel fragile and uncertainty is felt both on and off the job, International Women's Day is a clear reminder that equity is not guaranteed. It requires vigilance, care for one ...