CLR is pleased to announce the new episode of the CLR’s Speaker Series. We invite you to join our moderated expert panel of tradeswomen and employers, who will share their professional stories and perspectives on how the construction industry addresses one of the key aspects of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy – recruiting and retaining Women in Trades.
Karen Dearlove, BCCWITT, Executive Director
Since completing a Ph.D. in History in 2009, Karen Dearlove has worked in leadership positions in cultural, not-for-profit and community organizations in Ontario and British Columbia. While pursuing her academic studies Karen worked in a series of hands-on jobs, including surveying, carpentry, concrete finishing, and various positions in the fabrication of architectural grade wood doors such as CNC programming. An ardent supporter of the labour movement, Karen was instrumental in organizing her previous workplace and served as shop steward for CUPE Local 389. Karen is passionate about education, social justice, reconciliation, and representation. She is excited to bring her knowledge, skills and experience to create diverse, equitable workplaces and opportunities for women in the skilled trades.
Shayla Giroux, BCCWITT, Regional Representative
Shayla is a second-year Cabinet Maker apprentice and regional representative for BCCWITT. She is an advocate for equality within, and low barriers in, the workplace. After completing a fine arts degree, she began pursuing a career in trades to gain material knowledge, tool safety and building skills, intending to advance her artistic practice. After falling in love with architectural millwork, CNC and furniture design, she discovered an unforeseeable career path for herself. Shayla is excited to share her experiences and offer support to anyone considering a career in trades.
Barbara James belongs to the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw people of Port Hardy, B.C. She is a fourth-year carpentry apprentice and advocate for women in the trades. Barbara currently works for BCIT as an instructor in the School of Construction and the Environment. She volunteers her time with various committees including the BC Tradeswomen Society, Build TogetHer, and BCCWITT. Barbara is a trustee for The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, local 1907 and a delegate to the BC Regional Council of Carpenters.
Sandy is a senior human resources professional with leadership and HR operations experience which has been gained in multinational engineering, procurement and construction management organizations. Sandy joined NorLand Limited as Human Resources Director in mid-2021, and she is a participant and sponsor of NorLand’s EDI committee.
Ken McCormack, CLR, President & CEO
Ken has been the President and CEO of CLR since April 2019. A strategic professional and seasoned leader with more than 25 years of management experience at the highest levels, Ken has worked in the government, consulting, agriculture and automotive sectors, representing associations similar in size and scope to CLR. Ken serves on behalf of CLR on the BCCWITT Governance Committee. Recently Ken participated in the Be More Than A Bystander program – the partnership between BCCWITT and Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC), delivering a customized Be More Than a Bystander program for the skilled trades industry.
Registration is FREE. Hope to see you at the CLR’s Speaker Series!
