T.R.A.D.E. is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity created to recruit, retain, and advance women and underrepresented groups in construction. Through outreach, apprenticeship navigation, mentorship, leadership development, and worksite culture support, T.R.A.D.E. helps participants connect to registered construction apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship pathways and remain supported as they enter the trades.
What We do:
Collaborate with DAS-registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, unions, contractors, workforce partners, and trade organizations to expand access to construction career pathways for women, non-binary individuals, and underrepresented populations.
Support targeted outreach and recruitment efforts that increase awareness of registered construction apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship opportunities, including application steps, eligibility requirements, career options, wages, benefits, and long-term advancement pathways.
Advocate for equitable access to apprenticeship entry, retention, journey-level employment, mentorship, leadership development, and advancement opportunities within the construction industry.
Organize workshops, information sessions, outreach events, and awareness campaigns focused on apprenticeship navigation, jobsite readiness, worksite culture, anti-harassment, anti-discrimination, safety, mental health, and respectful workplace practices.
Develop mentorship, peer support, and retention programs that help women, non-binary individuals, and underrepresented apprentices navigate jobsite challenges, remain active in their programs, and build long-term careers in the trades.
Connect participants with ongoing educational resources, supportive services, leadership development opportunities, and career-readiness tools that help reduce barriers to apprenticeship entry, completion, and advancement.
Recognize and celebrate the achievements of women and underrepresented workers in construction to increase visibility, strengthen representation, and inspire future participants to enter and remain in the trades.