Women and Non-binary
Carpentry Workshop
This workshop offers an introduction to using tools with confidence, whether you’re exploring a potential career in the trades or simply gaining the skills to tackle projects on your own.
Building Community
& Confidence
North Forge, in collaboration with the Manitoba Construction Sector Council (MCSC) and Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), proudly presents a unique carpentry workshop series designed specifically for women and non-binary individuals. This workshop offers an introduction to using tools with confidence, whether you’re exploring a potential career in the trades or simply gaining the skills to tackle projects on your own. No matter your goal, these hands-on sessions will build your confidence.
Hands-On Training
Over the course of this five-night workshop series, led by experienced carpenters Samantha Lewis and Ava Foster, you’ll build a beautifully designed birdhouse. Along the way, you’ll learn essential carpentry skills like cutting, assembling, and finishing materials while having the opportunity to personalize your project. Essential skills such as using saws, drills, and other tools will be introduced, ensuring you leave with both a completed project and practical knowledge you can apply to future projects or home tasks.
Workshop Overview
Day One
Introduction to tool safety and basic carpentry skills. You’ll learn how to handle saws and transfer designs onto wood.
Day Four
Strengthen your construction skills by measuring, cutting, and assembling complex components like roof frames.
Day Two
Expand your skills with cutting tools like the jigsaw, bandsaw, and drill press. Learn how to assemble and secure materials.
Day Five
Refine your skills with finishing techniques, including sanding and final assembly, while reviewing how to apply these skills to future projects or trades careers.
Day Three
Practice precision work with chisels and routers, focusing on hinge installation and joint fitting.
Gathering Circle
This supportive space fosters connection, encourages open discussion, and builds a sense of community while offering guidance on the next steps and resources for participants’ carpentry journey.
What's Included in the Workshop?
For just $375, participants receive all materials, safety gear, and supplies, plus hands-on training in carpentry skills and safety. Plus, you’ll take home a beautiful, custom-built birdhouse you’ve created yourself.
At the end of the workshop, we invite you to join the Gathering Circle, a special event to celebrate your achievements, share experiences, and consider your next steps. The gathering includes a tour of the FabLab and offers networking opportunities to support your continued journey in carpentry and consider a career in trades.
Applications are now closed for this session.
Please join our mailing list to receive information on upcoming sessions and scholarship opportunities.
Partner with the FabLab
Partnering with the North Forge FabLab as a sponsor offers a unique opportunity to align your brand with innovation and creativity in the maker community. As a sponsor, your company will be directly associated with cutting-edge technology, entrepreneurship, and the development of new ideas across various industries.
Join an Open House Tour every Tuesday
Take a tour and discover how Manitoba entrepreneurs are starting businesses using resources from the Fabrication Lab. See 3D printing, laser cutting, computer-controlled routing, plasma cutting, vacuum forming, and many other processes that can transform wood, plastic, steel, glass, fabric and more, into prototypes. Learn how you can transform your idea into a real product or business. Experienced members will be on hand to help you understand the equipment and explain what North Forge Fabrication Lab is all about. Every Tuesday night 6 PM, 312 William Ave.
*Registration is required.
