To understand where we’re going, it’s important to reflect on where we’ve been. The history of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), agriculture, and trades in Canada is one of resilience, determination and breaking barriers. For generations, women have fought to claim their place in industries that were often considered “men’s work.” Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance—and a reminder of how far we still must go.
The Early Days: Women in STEM Breaking Ground
In the early 20th century, women’s roles in Canada were largely confined to domestic spaces. But as World War I and II created labor shortages, women stepped into roles traditionally held by men—working in factories, farms and even engineering roles. These women proved they were just as capable as their male counterparts, but when the wars ended, many were pushed back into traditional roles. Despite this setback, the seeds of change had been planted.
In the mid-20th century, women began to formally enter STEM fields, though often in the face of significant resistance. Pioneers like Elsie MacGill, the world’s first female aircraft designer, and Harriet Brooks, a groundbreaking nuclear physicist, paved the way for future generations. These women not only excelled in their fields but also challenged the stereotypes that had long excluded women from STEM careers.
Women in Agriculture: The Backbone of Canada
Women have always played a vital role in agriculture, despite their contributions often being overlooked. From managing family farms to leading agricultural research, women have been the backbone of Canada’s farming communities. In the 1970s and 1980s, organizations like the Canadian Federation of Agriculture began to formally recognize the contributions of women in agriculture, advocating for their inclusion in leadership roles and decision-making processes.
Today, women are leading the charge in sustainable farming, agricultural technology and food security. Despite their growing presence, women in agriculture still face challenges, from access to resources to representation in leadership.
Women in Trades: Building a Foundation in Canada
The trades have historically been one of the most male-dominated sectors in Canada. For decades, women who entered trades like welding, carpentry and electrical work faced discrimination, harassment and a lack of support. However in the 1980s and 1990s, organizations like Women in Trades and Technology (WITT) began to emerge, providing training, mentorship and advocacy for women in these fields.
These efforts have led to significant progress, but the numbers tell a sobering story: even today, women make up less than 5% of skilled trades workers in Canada. The barriers—ranging from outdated stereotypes to a lack of inclusive workwear—are still very real.
Where We Are Now: Progress and Challenges for Women in STEM
Thanks to the trailblazers who came before us, women and non-binary individuals are increasingly visible in STEM, agriculture, and trades. Organizations, advocacy groups, and initiatives like the Smoko Podcast are working to amplify diverse voices and create more inclusive spaces. But while we’ve come a long way, there’s still much work to be done.
Women and non-binary individuals continue to face systemic barriers, from unequal pay to a lack of representation in leadership roles. And in many cases, the tools and resources they need—like functional, inclusive workwear—are still hard to come by. That’s where Peggy Workwear comes in.
Where We’re Going: Building a Future of Representation, Sustainability and Inclusivity for women in STEM
At Peggy Workwear, we’re more than just a workwear company. We’re a movement. A movement to increase representation, to challenge stereotypes, and to create a world where everyone—regardless of gender—feels empowered to pursue their passions in non-traditional roles. Our mission is rooted in the belief that jobs don’t have genders, and that everyone deserves access to functional, comfortable, and durable workwear that fits their body and their life.
But we know that representation is about more than just clothing. It’s about visibility, community, and opportunity. It’s about creating spaces where women and non-binary individuals can thrive in industries that have historically excluded them. It’s about showing the next generation that they *can* be it, because they *can* see it.
As we look to the future, we’re doubling down on our commitment to three core pillars: Sustainability, Inclusivity, and Reconciliation. These aren’t just buzzwords for us—they’re the foundation of everything we do.
Sustainability: Doing Right by People and the Planet
When it comes to sustainability, we’re serious about doing things right. We believe that workwear should work for you, not against the planet. That’s why we partner with ethical, transparent factories around the world to create garments that are as responsible as they are functional.
Our manufacturers adhere to some of the most respected certification standards in the industry, ensuring that every piece of Peggy Workwear is made with care—for both the people who make it and the environment. From social welfare to responsibly sourced materials and lower-impact processes, we’re proud to say that our workwear is designed with integrity.
But we’re not stopping there. We know there’s always room to grow, and we’re committed to continuous improvement. In the short term, we’re focused on transitioning from synthetic fabrics to recycled materials, reducing our environmental footprint one garment at a time. And in the long term? We’re working toward becoming a certified B Corporation—a designation that reflects our commitment to balancing purpose with profit.
Sustainability isn’t just a goal; it’s a responsibility. And we’re here for it.
Inclusivity: Designing for Real People, Real Bodies
When we talk about increasing representation, we mean everyone. We know that diversity isn’t just about gender—it’s about size, shape, ability, and identity. That’s why inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do.
Our designs are based on real people and real bodies. We’ve been in your boots, and we know how hard it can be to find workwear that fits *and* functions. That’s why we offer inclusive sizing from 2XS to 2XL, ensuring that more people can find gear that works for them.
But we also know that inclusivity is a journey, not a destination. While we’re proud of the progress we’ve made, we’re not done yet. Our short-term goal is to expand our size offerings to include 3XL to 6XL, because everyone deserves access to workwear that fits their body and their life.
We also believe that inclusivity goes beyond sizing. It’s about creating a culture where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Through the Smoko Podcast, we’re amplifying diverse voices and sharing stories that inspire, educate, and empower. Because representation matters—not just in what we wear, but in the stories we tell.
Reconciliation: Honouring the Land and Its People
Peggy Workwear is proud to call Whistler, BC, home. But we also recognize that this land is the unceded traditional territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
Land acknowledgments are an important first step, but they’re just the beginning. We’re committed to taking meaningful action to support reconciliation and build relationships with Indigenous communities. Our goal is to collaborate with and uplift local First Nations, ensuring that our business practices honor the land and its people.
Reconciliation is about more than words—it’s about action. And we’re committed to doing the work.
Why Representation Matters for Women
At Peggy Workwear, we believe that representation is the key to change. When women and non-binary individuals see themselves reflected in STEM, agriculture, and trades, it sends a powerful message: You belong here.
But representation isn’t just about visibility—it’s about access. It’s about creating workwear that fits, functions, and empowers. It’s about building a community where everyone feels supported and celebrated. And it’s about challenging the status quo to create a more inclusive future.
We’re proud to be part of this movement, and we’re grateful to have you with us. Together, we can reform culture, redesign industrial spaces, and create a world where everyone can thrive.
Join us on this journey. Whether you’re wearing Peggy Workwear, tuning into the Smoko Podcast, or simply sharing our mission with your community, you’re helping to build a future where representation, sustainability, and inclusivity are the norm—not the exception.
Because when we rise together, we rise stronger.