New PropELLE program prepares women for male-dominated fields

A group 11 of women is getting ready to enter the workforce in fields traditionally dominated by men.

They've been taking part in a new program this year run by Women's Network PEI.

The program, PropELLE, is similar to Trade HERizons, another program offered Women's Network, which prepares women to enter trades. But PropELLE targets a different group of women, and prepares them for a wider array of jobs.

Program facilitator Jaime Griffin said the organization decided to add the new program after hearing from women who were interested in job training, but weren't ready or interested for a program like Trade HERizons, which prepares women for college programs in trades.  

"We did meet quite a few women who were interested in making change in their lives, but weren't necessarily interested specifically in the trades. Or maybe weren't ready for a college prep course," said Griffin.

Program meets demand

PropELLE introduces women to all sorts of industries, including trades like plumbing and carpentry, as well as trucking. The program also has a major focus on personal development.

Josie O'Brien signed up for PropELLE because she said she needed a change in her life. She's a single mother and was working part time. 

When she started the program, she wanted to become a carpenter, but after trying out some hands on work, she changed her mind. 

I really didn't know exactly what my goals were. And so that was what's so great about this program. Because they have shown us so many different ideas.- Barbara Phalen

"I did absolutely love all the carpentry work, but the weather and me don't mix too well," said O'Brien.

But O'Brien discovered a new interest after hearing guest speakers talk about Computer Information Systems (CIS) programs.

"It just clicked," said O'Brien. She now plans to apply to study CIS at Holland College.

Another participant, Barbara Phalen, plans to apply to a plumbing program at Holland College. It's an interest she discovered during the PropELLE program.

"I really didn't know exactly what my goals were. And so that was what's so great about this program. Because they have shown us so many different ideas," said Phalen.

Personal development

As well as learning about a variety of work sectors, the participants get help with their resumes, and practice interviewing skills. They also develop a list of goals, and an action plan to achieve them. 

O'Brien says her list is pretty long. 

"My top thing was to make a happy life for me and my son. And then the rest of them bring that. So I have our plans to apply to Holland College. How we're going to do it. What may become difficult and make it harder," said O'Brien.

Griffin said she's seen a lot of personal development from all the women in the group.

"It's really amazing to have someone come in and feel like they don't have a lot to offer and within … 11 weeks, to see someone remember the potential that they have," said Griffin.

The program wraps up with a graduation ceremony Dec. 9. Women's Network PEI plans to offer the program again next year.

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