Trailblazers

4. Trailblazers participant cuts wood using a chop saw at a Habitat for Humanity construction site.

Female employer stands in front of construction site talking to Trailblazers participants.

5. Trailblazers participants smile in front of a solar panel installation.

2. A Trailblazers instructor shows two participants how to install vinyl siding on a house.

Job training in construction

Trailblazers is a free trades training program preparing women and gender-expansive individuals ages 18+ for careers in construction and the renewable energy sector.

The seven-week-long pre-apprenticeship program provides a safe, non-judgmental environment for participants to build skills, gain confidence, and explore fields that tend to be male-dominated.

Throughout the program, participants get hands-on experience through field trips, community build projects, and a paid onsite work experience with a local employer who has participated in our gender equity training.

Class Overview

Weeks 1-4

Class meets two evenings during the week from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm and Saturdays from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Participants receive classroom and hands-on instruction covering core construction, trades, and renewable energy skills; Curricula based on NCCER (National Center for Construction Education & Research).
Participants complete OSHA 10 training during Week 1.

Weeks 5-7

Trailblazers have the opportunity to complete an on-site internship with a local employer.
Class continues meeting one evening a week for career support, mentor and networking events, and the job fair.

“I have wanted to get into the trades and didn't know where to start. Now I have so much direction and feel like there's a bounty of resources to utilize."

- Trailblazers Graduate

“The Trailblazers program turned an unclear, intimidating job field into an exciting, completely do-able career path. Getting to meet and learn from so many women in the trades was hugely inspiring."

- Trailblazers Graduate

“I gained confidence through the experience - both in trying something new in a supportive environment and in the new skills we practiced as a team.”

-Trailblazers Graduate

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, thanks to our generous supporters!

Trailblazers is open to Vermont women and gender-expansive individuals ages 18+

Trailblazers is offered in communities across the state, contact us to learn where the next cohort will be!

We require every employer who hosts an intern to first complete at least one 90-minute Gender Equity training to increase their awareness and ability to provide a supportive environment for all.

Become a Trailblazer

Apply Today!

Upcoming Classes

Oct. 1 - Nov. 14 In-Person

18+

Trailblazers: Energy Works in Rutland

A Trailblazer uses a power drill during an Energy Works Heat Pump Training

VWW and VAL are offering a free eight-week joint training program for women and gender-expansive individuals ages 18+ who are interested in seeking employment in Vermont’s climate workforce.

Opportunities and Benefits for Employers

We partner with local businesses to expand trades career opportunities for women and help employers create and maintain equitable workplaces.

Employers are invited to host Trailblazers participants for internships; visit the class to talk about their company; host field trips; and/or table at our job fair.

Businesses receive free gender equity training for their employees as well as ongoing support for recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce.

Partner with Us!