Trusting the process, transforming her future
After four years as a packaging operator at a brewery in Burnside, Ke-Yana Redmond was ready for a change. While browsing the NSCC website, she stumbled upon Women Unlimited, an initiative designed to support women from equity-deserving communities in pursuing careers in trades and technology. The program piqued her interest and what began as a casual search quickly turned into a life-changing decision.
She was accepted into the Women Unlimited program at NSCC’s Akerley Campus, joining a cohort of 20 women. What drew her in was the chance to explore multiple careers in trades and technology before choosing a specialization. “You get a little taste of different trades to see what you’re interested in,” she says.
During a hands-on day focused on metal fabrication and welding, she discovered her passion, “I thought I wouldn’t enjoy it, but I ended up loving it.” That evening, curiosity turned into conviction as she began experimenting with metal at home, knowing she’d found her calling.
Inspiration from tradeswomen
Her journey took a pivotal turn during a Women Unlimited workshop led by three representatives from Irving Shipbuilding—the company’s apprenticeship team lead and two skilled trades professionals, including a Women Unlimited graduate. Their passion and expertise energized the room as they shared insights into marine trades and introduced the Irving Shipbuilding Marine Trades Initiative, a program designed to remove financial barriers and connect learners to in-demand careers.
Already leaning toward metal fabrication, Ke-Yana saw the initiative as a perfect fit and applied. “I’m very grateful to have been accepted,” she says. “It’s reassuring to know that there’s a career waiting at the end of this journey.”
Learning that opens doors
Ke-Yana’s experience in the metal fabrication program has been overwhelmingly positive. “There’s been a lot of challenges, but I see myself progressing every day,” she says. “When I look back at pictures of my earlier welding work, I can really see how far I’ve come.”
She credits the collaboration between NSCC and industry partners like Irving Shipbuilding for providing real-world experience and valuable support. “It’s helping me make my dreams a reality,” she says. “In today’s uncertain job market, knowing there’s demand for skilled tradespeople is reassuring.”
Coming from a large family that she described as low income, Ke-Yana never imagined having an opportunity like this: “It’s taken hard work and determination, but I’ve already accomplished so much in just a few months. My goal is simple, gain experience, build a successful career and create a stable life for me and my husband, maybe even take that long-awaited honeymoon we both deserve.”
The Women Unlimited support system
Ke-Yana emphasized how much confidence she gained throughout her journey, thanks to the encouragement of mentors and peers who supported her growth both professionally and personally. One of those mentors was Nikki Farmer, a program navigator and instructor with Women Unlimited. “She pushed us beyond what we thought we were capable of,” Ke-Yana says. “Nikki believed in us and gave us the confidence to believe in ourselves.”
The program, she says, helped her discover her strengths and gave her the courage to pursue the Irving Marine Trades Initiative. “Without Women Unlimited, I wouldn’t have had the confidence or skills to go after this.”
Even after completing the program, she’s stayed connected with the team, continuing to draw inspiration from their support. When asked to sum up her NSCC experience, she says, “Trust the process.” It was a mantra throughout Women Unlimited, one she wasn’t sure about at first, but over time it became something she truly lives by. “If you do what you need to do and stay focused, you really do get where you want to go.”
Her message to other women considering a career in welding or metal fabrication is clear: “Do your research. Look into the labour market and talk to people in the trades. They’re usually more than willing to share their experiences. Reach out to local unions, colleges and universities, they want to help.”
Irving Shipbuilding Marine Trades Initiative
Ke-Yana’s success shows how programs like the Irving Shipbuilding Marine Trades Initiative can transform lives and create pathways to meaningful careers.
This program removes financial barriers and addresses labour shortages by offering free training for high-demand trades. Irving Shipbuilding covers tuition, tools and student fees for 80 learners across four programs over two years.
Applications for the next welding intake open in spring 2026, with training beginning at NSCC’s Akerley Campus in September. Women Unlimited participants are strongly encouraged to apply.