CAF introduces program to recruit women

A new initiative by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) will allow women to learn more about military life before they decide to join.

The Women in Force Program (WFP) will bring together 120 Canadian women this August and October.

“The Women in Force Program is part of Canadian Armed Forces initiatives to find new ways to reach and inform Canadians from diverse backgrounds. A stronger representation of women within our ranks is crucial to the Canadian Armed Forces’ operational effectiveness,” LGen. Charles Lamarre, Commander, Military Personnel Command.

Held as two ten-day events in August and two three-day events in October at CFB Borden and Saint-Jean Garrison, WFP pilot events will allow potential future female CAF members to meet with and talk to current CAF members. They will also get a taste of military life through fitness training, hands-on demonstrations of occupations, and tactical skills.

The overall focus of WFP is to raise awareness about life in the CAF and enable women to make informed decisions about their careers. Staff have been designated to mentor and guide participants throughout the program.

“The Women in Force Program provides a unique experience to Canadian women by providing them the truth about military life, its opportunities, and challenges. The program allows women thinking about becoming part of the Canadian Armed Forces team to have an opportunity to receive first-hand information before making a decision to enrol and serve their country,” said BGen. Virginia Tattersall, Deputy Commander, Military Personnel Generation.

Women have been involved with Canada’s military for more than 100 years and have been integrated into all occupations of the CAF for the last 20 years.

Thanks to direction from the Chief of the Defence and Canada’s Employment Equity Act, the CAF is working towards increasing the number of women in service to at least 25.1 percent of its total personnel by 2026.

The WFP pilot events will be held from Aug. 14 to Aug. 23 at CFB Borden and Aug. 14 to Aug. 23 at Saint-Jean Garrison, Quebec. WFP will again be held from Oct. 20 to Oct. 22 at CFB Borden and Oct. 28 to Oct. 30 at Saint-Jean Garrison, Quebec.