Desiree T. Smith

From Grit to Great: Women in the Trades

The title is self-explanatory, but as a woman in the trades, representing women now and those to come, I would like to elaborate on the title. Through sheer determination, resilience, and passion for pursuing our crafts in the trades, there is absolutely nothing that can hinder us from living our best lives through the trades. Circumstances may delay us, but we must remain steadfast and unwavering. We are determined to achieve our goals, and we are committed to working hard to obtain them. This is what makes us great.

As tradeswomen, our duty is to face challenges head-on and overcome them. We are not afraid to tackle obstacles and emerge victorious. After all, we aspire to see ourselves on the path to greatness.

Desiree T. Smith, known as “The Floor Diva,” is a skilled journeyperson in floor installation with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Local 27. As a dedicated mentor, she teaches women entering the trades and actively champions equity, diversity, and inclusion. As a founding board member of Ontario Building Construction Tradeswomen (OBCT) and recipient of multiple mentorship awards, she is committed to uplifting and recruiting the next generation of tradeswomen. With expertise in workplace safety, leadership, and public speaking, Desiree continues to empower individuals, proving that passion and willpower can build limitless success.

Desiree T. Smith, a prominent advocate for women in the trades, has over 11 years of experience in the construction industry as a Double Journeyperson in the trades of Carpentry and Tile Setting. Desiree is a skilled trades instructor, and the proud recipient of the UBC Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Award of Excellence, in 2024/2025. A founding member of the Ontario Building & Construction tradeswomen, she’s a Champion Mentor of the NEXGEN BUILDERS Award; Member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionist (CBTU), and the Afro Canadian Contractors Association (ACCA); and has successfully completed the National Leadership Development Program for Women in the Skill Trades and Turners Construction Management Program. 

Desiree continues to thrive and actively advocates not only for herself but for all women in the trades industry.

Learn more by visiting Local 27: https://www.ubc27.ca/

✨ Ready to build your future in the trades? Join Desiree’s workshop to gain hands-on skills, industry insights, and the confidence to thrive.

Who should attend?
✔️ Women & young professionals exploring trades
✔️ Skilled workers seeking mentorship
✔️ Industry leaders supporting diversity & inclusion
✔️ Anyone ready to break barriers in construction