June 28, 2023 – Keen Utility—a provider of safety footwear and the work boot division of Keen Inc.—has announced the recipients of its “She Builds” grant program (2023).

“Through [this] program, we are able to better support a number of forward-thinking organizations dedicated to the empowerment of women in the trades,” said Kevin Oberle, Keen Utility. “A career in the trades can be incredibly rewarding and, as a company, Keen Utility is proud to help build a future where women are provided more support and offered more inclusivity in industries critical to our way of life.”

Among the six 2023 recipient organizations is British Columbia Institute of Technology’s “Trades Discovery for Women” program which, for eligible students, has grants available to cover tuition, student fees, and most supplies.

BCIT’s Trades Discovery programs prepare participants to enter and complete trades/technical training, or seek apprenticeship.

Launched in 2021, Keen Utility’s “She Builds” grant program was created to help advance the empowerment of more women entering the skilled trades. Between 2021 and 2026, the program has pledged $1 million in product and financial support to non-profit organizations in the United States and Canada that are providing trades education and support to women.