Women and Gender-Diverse 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), Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), and Bockstael Construction, proudly presents a unique carpentry workshop series designed specifically for women and gender diverse 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 five (non-consecutive) class workshop series, led by experienced female-identifying carpenters, 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
*All weeknight classes from 5:30p.m.-8:30p.m.
Day 1 - Wed. April 23
Introduction to tool safety and basic carpentry skills. You’ll be measuring,
using table saw, and learning how to handle a circular saw to cut your birdhouse component widths.
Day 2 - Fri. April 25
Expand your skills with the chop saw as you precisely cut each piece to length. Watch your project take shape while learning expert tips and tricks to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and confidence in your craftsmanship.
Day 3 - Wed. April 30
Strengthen your construction skills by using a drill press and cutting complex joint fittings for dividers inside your triplex birdhouse.
Day 4 - Fri. May 2
Practice with an air nailer to begin assembling your project, ensuring secure connections and solid construction. Refine your capabilities for precision by measuring and cutting interior components to final size.
Day 5 - Sun. May 4 (noon start time)
Refine your skills with finishing techniques, including creating decorative trim on the bandsaw, hinge and latch installation, while reviewing how to apply these skills to future projects or trade careers.
Gathering Circle - Time & Date, TBD
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.
Proudly presented by
MCSC Scholarship Opportunity
Manitoba Construction Sector Council (MCSC), North Forge and its partners believe that cost should never stand in the way of learning new skills and pursuing your passion.
If you identify as a woman or gender-diverse individual and face any financial barriers that may prevent you from participating in the workshop, we encourage you to apply for our MCSC Scholarship. The scholarship covers your course fees and the opportunity to offset childcare costs, if needed, for the duration of the workshop.
Individuals selected for a scholarship will be notified on Wednesday, March 26th.
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Investment &
What's included
Workshop cost is $375, participants receive:
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all materials and supplies,
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safety gear, and
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hands-on training in carpentry skills and safety.
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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 in the trades. The gathering offers networking opportunities to support your continued journey in carpentry and consider a career in trades.