The Barrie Chamber has revitalized the Women in Business Awards event to recognize hardworking business women in our community. Winners and finalists will be local leaders and influencers, women excelling in their industry while giving back to their community. With 23% of local companies owned or operated by women, we are confident that the nominee list will be impressive.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:Jamie McMillan

Jamie McMillan is a Journeyman Ironworker / Boilermaker and founder of KickAss Careers. She became an ironworker in 2002 when women only represented 2% of the workforce across Canada and the United States. She thoroughly understands the stereotypes and struggles that women face in male-dominated occupations, and she is determined to equal the playing field.

When Jamie was young she struggled academically. In high school she did well in shop classes but was not made aware of skilled trades apprenticeship pathways. She had no interest in post-secondary education and dropped out in grade 12. After leaving home she started part time job and struggled to make ends meet. In 2002 with an empty bank account, no investments, pension, or benefits she felt like she was self-destructing and spiraled into a depression. One day she set out to purchase a few groceries when she bumped into an old high school class mate who spoke to her about skilled labour opportunities. That conversation changed everything. Over the next few years Jamie completed an apprenticeship and became extremely passionate about educating others about earn while you learn pathways in building and construction apprenticeship programs. Jamie McMillan, skilled iron worker, does presentations around the country about the need for skilled trade opportunities and stresses how its not just for men.

Our guests at the luncheon sponsored by BMO Bank of Montreal are the business leaders and entrepreneurs that drive the local economy.

In addition to the high level networking opportunities available, there are tremendous sponsorship and branding benefits. Join the celebration!

2020 Women in Business Awards Winners!

(listed alphabetically by last name)