With the understanding that northern development is ongoing and increasing, this exploratory project gathered information on the experiences and perceptions of nine First Nations and Métis women, in and around Thompson, who had participated as employees or trainees for work within these fields. While many of the women spoke positively about their training and work experiences, they also voiced specific gender-based, socio-economic and health issues which challenge their ability to fully participate and benefit from these northern economic opportunities.

Introduction

For a number of years, Prairie Women's Health Centre of Excellence (PWHCE) Board of Directors have called for greater emphasis of research directed at understanding the health and health needs of Aboriginal women living in northern regions of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Given ongoing and increasing industrial development in these regions, and the limited research in the area, it made sense to start with an exploration of how Aboriginal women are participating in and experiencing employment within these industries.

As a primary goal, we wanted to understand issues related to recruitment and retention. In other words, what are the factors that assist Aboriginal women to enter non-traditional industries as well as issues contributing to employment retention? In order to flesh out these opportunities and barriers, the women were asked questions around housing, childcare, health and safety, life skills, women-designated spaces (such as camps/bathrooms etc.), workplace harassment, and differential treatment based on gender and race. (More in full report)

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