Vermont Works for Women Marks Construction Week

Vermont Works for Women, Inc. (VWW) is celebrating National Women in Construction Week by preparing for an expanded 2026 slate of its Trailblazers training program.

Trailblazers is a free, seven-week pre-apprenticeship program designed to prepare women and gender-expansive individuals age 18 and older for careers in construction and the skilled trades. Participants gain hands-on experience, build technical skills, and explore career paths in traditionally male-dominated industries.

The program is a registered pre-apprenticeship with the Vermont Department of Labor and concludes with a paid, on-the-job internship with a local employer.

Program Expanding to Four Locations

In 2026, Trailblazers will be offered in four Vermont communities:

• South Burlington – Carpenter’s Union | March 17 – April 30
• Hartford – Hartford Area Career & Tech Center | May 26 – July 9
• Manchester – Burr & Burton Academy | Summer 2026
• St. Johnsbury – St. J Academy | Fall 2026

The addition of Manchester and St. Johnsbury marks an expansion of the program’s geographic reach.

Addressing Gender Gaps in the Trades

Nationally, women make up only about 4% of construction trade workers. Since launching Trailblazers in 2019, VWW has trained 237 women and gender-expansive individuals, many of whom have gone on to careers in carpentry, HVAC, electrical work, and other trades.

“Trailblazers is incredibly impactful for participants,” said Robina Moyer, VWW’s Trailblazers Program Manager. “Beyond building technical skills, participants gain a better understanding of the types of jobs available in the trades and the confidence to pursue them.”

VWW partners with employers across Vermont to host paid internships for graduates. Employer partners also receive training on inclusive workplace practices to help ensure supportive environments for all employees.

“Through Trailblazers we are providing a supportive pathway for women to enter the trades,” said Executive Director Rhoni Basden. “Vermont needs more trades people to do this work and do it well. Trades careers provide high-wage, high-growth opportunities for women, creating greater economic stability for themselves and their families.”

Broader Mission

Vermont Works for Women promotes economic justice by advancing gender equity and supporting women and youth throughout their career journeys. In addition to Trailblazers, the organization offers:

• Career education and exploration programs for middle and high school girls and gender-expansive youth
• Employment and career coaching
• Skills training programs, including services for incarcerated women
• Workshops and consulting for schools and businesses to improve workplace and educational cultures

More information about Trailblazers and partnership opportunities is available through Vermont Works for Women.

Originally reported by Tim in Vermont Biz.