My name is Raven Hillenbrand. I am from the Gitxaala Nation. I am of Raven/Ganhada clan, from the house of Dza’Wilaks. As an indigenous woman from an ancient culture, I need to introduce myself through my nation and tribal lineage. I moved from my community in Northern BC to the city to further my education and seek career opportunities. In 2009 Access Trades had a posting for “Woman in Trades,” they offered training at the Piping Industry College. I applied and was successfully accepted into the course. They not only provided me the training and essential skills necessary to meet the industry’s present and future needs and to optimize my employ-ability but also offered additional support to students in bus fare, meal allowance, and childcare. I was a single mother of two children at the time and that support was what I needed to fully take hold of this opportunity to change my life and that of my children. From there I went on and completed the woman in the Trades Exploratory Program. It introduced us to the plumbing, pipe fitting, sprinkler fitting and welding. I chose Plumbing as my trade. I then registered for foundations. Once I completed foundations, I went out into the field to gain experience as a plumber’s apprentice. There were, challenges and I found that I had to prove myself. I had to prove myself to others and myself! Once I was given my tasks, I completed each one successfully with little or no help. I enjoyed every learning experience working with others and working towards my chosen career as a plumber!