Explore Carpentry Day for Girls

On November 28th, December 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, female students from Bishop Alexander Carter, Marymount Academy, St. Benedict Elementary and St. Charles College participated in an “Explore Carpentry Day” at the Local 2486 United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America Training Centre located in Azilda. A great time was had by all. In the morning the girls were introduced to the trade by Cindy Hykin and Rhéal Gélinas, both journeypersons and members of local 2486. After a question and answer period the girls were outfitted with safety apparel including safety glasses, hard hats and safety footwear. Each girl also sported a fashionable pink T-shirt and a carpenter’s tool belt complete with hammer. The girls were divided into teams to frame two walls. Under the supervision of Cindy and Rhéal, they measured, cut, hammered and framed one wall with a window opening and a second regular wall.

Once framing of the two walls was complete they continued on to drywall the interior. After a full day of measuring, cutting and swinging of the hammer, the girls felt proud of their accomplishments and truly appreciated a glimpse into the carpentry trade. This event was organized in partnership with Tom Cardinal Union co-ordinator with Local 2486 United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America and Michel Grandmont co-ordinator with the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program.