“Susie’s Shed” intends to showcase the trades to young women and girls

AUSTIN, November 28, 2024 – As the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC) kicked off their 81st Annual National Conference, the association and its Women in Mechanical Contracting Committee (WiMC) used the opportunity to announce the publication of their first children’s book showcasing the trades to young women and girls. The idea to publish the book was first put forward by WiMC Chair Judy-Lynn Mason as a way to reach out to the next generation.

“We were so excited to announce and launch ‘Susie’s Shed’ in front of our conference delegation this morning,” said Mason. “This book has been a goal of our committee, and it is wonderful to see it come to fruition. It is a beautifully illustrated book that tells a fun story about girls undertaking the exciting trades on a construction project.”

The book, for sale through Amazon and through MCA Canada, was written by Ken Lancastle, Chief Operating Officer of MCAC, and illustrated by Michael Roy. It is the first in a series of books the association intends to publish, as well as colouring books and other interactive elements featuring the Susie character.

“One of the main messages that we wanted to share with ‘Susie’s Shed,’ and with future projects, is that girls can do anything they set their minds to,” Mason continued. “Susie is one way that we are showcasing to girls and parents – as well as teachers and counsellors – that the construction sector is an exciting career opportunity for anybody.”

In addition to MCAC, the development of the book was supported by Mechanical Contractor Associations across the country. MCAC will be dedicating the sales of the project to supporting future Women in Mechanical Contracting initiatives.

“The MCA community was extremely enthusiastic to support this initiative,” explained Charlie Webb, Chair of MCA Canada. “Once the ball started rolling on the project, our partner associations across Canada were ready to step up to see the book come to fruition.”

For more information about Susie’s Shed, please visit www.susiebuilds.ca.