Rising Together. Women, Trades and CUSW with Michelle Holmes - Episode #14

In this inspiring episode of the CUSW Spotlight Podcast, host Dan Plexman discusses with Michelle Holmes, Red Seal Electrician, Training Technician at Bruce Power, founding member of the CUSW National Tradeswomen Committee, and the 2025 WiN Canada Mentor of the Year.Michelle shares her 19-year journey in the trades, from her early apprenticeship days to becoming a respected leader, mentor, and advocate for cultural change within CUSW and the nuclear industry. Together, Dan and Michelle dive into the realities of building a career in a male-dominated field, the power of representation, and why mentorship is essential for helping women and underrepresented members thrive.Listeners will hear candid insights about:Creating pathways for women and girls in STEM and the skilled tradesHow mentorship shapes careers, confidence, and connectionThe origins of the CUSW National Tradeswomen CommitteeThe evolution of CUSW’s health, safety, and wellness cultureMichelle’s role in bringing the Be More Than a Bystander program to CUSWThe importance of community, family, and belonging in sustaining long careers in the tradesMichelle’s passion for lifting others up, challenging outdated norms, and creating safe, supportive workplaces shines through every part of this conversation. Her story is a reminder that when one person steps forward, others rise with them — and when we build together, we rise together.Whether you're a tradesperson, a mentor, a student exploring your future, or simply someone who believes in fairness and opportunity, this episode is a powerful listen.Tune in and be inspired. Because the future of the trades is diverse, collaborative, and rising together.Want to connect with Michelle or learn more?  Feel free to reach out to her directly at [email protected] sure you visit 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝘄𝘄𝘄.𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮/ to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁@𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your network to help shine a spotlight on the incredible work happening at CUSW!  🔻 Learn More About CUSW  Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are 🔻 Stay Informed  Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News 🔻 Get in Touch  Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page 🔻 Get Involved  Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model 🔻 Never Miss an Episode  Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here 🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!