On September 15, 2025, in North Vancouver, a milestone moment reshaped the future of women in Canada’s trades. The Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation, in partnership with Seaspan, announced a record-breaking $5.56 million donation to YWCA Metro Vancouver. It is the single largest gift in the organization’s history — and one that promises to remove barriers, open doors, and build pathways for women to thrive in industries that have too often kept them on the sidelines.
“Building the next generation of tradespeople is crucial to the success of Canada’s growing shipbuilding industry on the West Coast, and to many other, integral industries across the country. Seaspan is pleased to be supporting the YWCA Higher Ground program and helping to provide a safe, encouraging platform for women to join the trades and build a purposeful, successful career path,” conveyed John McCarthy, CEO, Seaspan Shipyards.
A New Era for Women in the Trades
The donation will fuel Higher Ground, YWCA Metro Vancouver’s signature program designed to give women a foothold in skilled trades. Beyond technical training, the initiative emphasizes a holistic approach: participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship from industry leaders, one-on-one career coaching, and critical supports such as childcare, transportation, education assistance, and accessibility accommodations.
By combining skills development with wraparound supports, Higher Ground aims to dismantle systemic barriers that have historically prevented women from pursuing — and sustaining — careers in the trades.
“The Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation could not be more pleased and honoured to help fund this critically important avenue supporting women in trades. The work of Higher Ground will ensure more women have an opportunity to explore robust, stable careers while being supported and uplifted economically and socially,” expressed Jon Bennion, Executive Director, the Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation.
Meeting Canada’s Workforce Challenge
The timing couldn’t be more urgent. Canada is staring down a shortage of 700,000 skilled trade workers by 2028, driven largely by retirements. Despite the demand, women represent only about 5% of the construction trades workforce, according to the BC Construction Association.
Bridging that gap is about more than numbers — it’s about economic resilience. Skilled trades are the backbone of Canada’s infrastructure, industry, and innovation. Without inclusive investment, the sector risks falling short of its potential.
“For women entering the skilled trades, gender stereotypes can lead to stigma, inadequate safety and a lack of opportunities. By providing wraparound support, Higher Ground will empower women to confidently break these barriers, achieve economic independence and build sustainable careers,” explained Tina Hurd, Higher Ground Program Manager, YWCA Metro Vancouver.
Investing in Futures
The transformational gift underscores the commitment of the Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation and Seaspan to advance equity while also securing Canada’s long-term workforce needs. By backing Higher Ground, they are supporting women to step into meaningful, lasting careers — strengthening families, communities, and the economy.
“Women may not have seen themselves as electricians, welders or carpenters because these are traditionally male-dominated professions. Supporting women in the skilled trades isn’t just about creating a more equitable future, it’s about unlocking the full potential of our workforce. When we invest in women’s access to training, mentorship and leadership opportunities in these fields, we strengthen industries, drive innovation and build more inclusive communities,” stated Erin Seeley, CEO, YWCA Metro Vancouver.
This isn’t just philanthropy. It’s a declaration that women belong in the trades — and with the right tools, support, and investment, they will help build Canada’s future.
