2026 Conference Speakers
Two Pathways, One Pipeline: Supporting Youth and Women Entering the Skilled Trades
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
1:30 p.m.
This presentation explores how building a strong construction workforce requires multiple, connected entry points rather than a single solution. Using two established programs as examples, the session highlights how early exposure for youth and pre‑employment training for women work together to create a more inclusive and sustainable talent pipeline. Participants will gain insight into program design, partnerships, and practical approaches that can be adapted to support workforce development in their own communities or organizations.
Susan Crowley
Executive Director, CWB Foundation
Meet Susan
Susan Crowley is the Executive Director of the CWB Foundation and a CWB Group Senior Leader. Joining the CWB Group in September 2018, Susan was tasked with evaluating the impact and effectiveness of the CWB Foundation’s programs and investments across Canada, developing and implementing a strategic plan to transition the organization from ‘start up’ to sustainable.
Over the past five years, its portfolio of programs, grants and investments, supported by external corporate, government and philanthropic partners, has expanded by more than 5 times, consistent with its purpose and aspiration. By building the pipeline of talent for industry and academia through changing perceptions of the trades with awareness-based programming, system support and pre-employment initiatives, she works to close the skills gap and skills shortage, future proofing Canada’s welding and allied processes technological and workforce needs through expanding education and career pathways accessible and inclusive to all Canadians.
Susan’s career began in education, moving to corporate finance and external communications in financial services industry roles before embracing the not-for-profit sector, most specifically, within healthcare, services for children and youth, and education.
