Fed funding aims to boost women in mining from just 16%

Women represent only 16% of Canada’s mining industry’s workforce, a figure that’s three times lower than the average across all industries, according to the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR).

The federal government says it’s granting the organization $770,000 over 2.5 years to try to nudge that number up.

“When we empower women in non-traditional fields, we are creating a stronger and more inclusive workforce in Canada, and unlocking diverse talents that will drive innovation and economic growth,” Marci Ien, minister for women and gender equality and youth, said in a release on July 16. “The government of Canada is proud to support MiHR’s efforts to drive positive change and works towards a fairer and more sustainable industry.” 

Since 2015, the Canadian government has invested over $30 million in projects supporting women’s participation in non-traditional industries. The effort is aimed at removing the barriers they face, including gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment, which can make it more difficult for many to fulfill their potential and drive economic growth.

“Mining faces a tight labour market at a time when critical minerals and metals are increasingly needed to transition Canada to a clean economy,” MiHR executive director Ryan Montpellier said in a release. “[MiHR’s] Changing Culture project will develop and implement gender inclusion tools and training to enable the systemic change necessary to increase the sector’s supply of skilled talent through women’s increased participation.”