By CAGIS
Do you know what the term “Journeyperson” means? Youth who attended Desiree T. Smith’s CAGIS Virtual event, Bookshelf Builders, know the answer!
Desiree is a trades expert with over 13 years of experience in carpentry and tile setting. She excels as a skilled trades instructor and is a strong advocate for women in the trades.
Desiree is a founding member of the Ontario Building and Construction Tradeswomen, a Champion Mentor of the NexGen Builders Award, and a member of the Coalition of the Black Trade Unionist and the Afro-Canadian Construction Association.
Read on to learn more about Desiree’s inspiring journey as a Double Journeyperson and expertise as a tradeswoman!
Meet Desiree T. Smith
How did you first discover CAGIS and how are you involved today?
I first discovered CAGIS through an invitation to speak as a STEM expert. As someone passionate about introducing more girls and gender-diverse youth to careers in the skilled trades, it immediately felt like a wonderful fit.
Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to lead both a virtual workshop and an in-person chapter event. During these sessions, I shared my journey into the trades and introduced participants to the world of construction by building a bookshelf and a tile-setting project, using real construction techniques and tools.
One of my favourite parts of these events is seeing how quickly curiosity replaces hesitation. Many participants arrive knowing very little about the trades, but by the end of the session they’re asking thoughtful questions, trying new skills, discovering new interests, and imagining themselves being involved in the skilled trades industry. It’s incredibly rewarding to help open those doors.
Who or what first drew you to the trades?
My path into the trades wasn’t a straight line. Before becoming a tradesperson, I worked in other fields and eventually realized I wanted a career where I could build things, solve problems, and see the results of my work at the end of each day.
What truly drew me to the trades was the combination of creativity and technical skill. Every project presents a new challenge, and no two days are exactly alike. I also discovered that I enjoy working with my hands and using both critical thinking and precision to create something that will last for years.
Perhaps most importantly, I realized that the trades offered an opportunity to challenge stereotypes. Women have always belonged in skilled trades, and I wanted to be part of helping make that more visible for the next generation.
You are a Double Journeyperson in floor installation and tile setting. Can you explain what those titles mean and what you do?
A Journeyperson is someone who has completed years of apprenticeship training, on-the-job experience, and certification in a skilled trade. Becoming a Double Journeyperson means I have completed the apprenticeship training, required work experience, and certification in two separate Red Seal trades: Floor Installation and Tile Setting.
As a floor installer, I work on building, installing, and repairing flooring systems and finishes in residential, commercial, and institutional settings. As a tile setter, I specialize in installing ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and other tile materials with precision and craftsmanship.
Having qualifications in both trades allows me to understand projects from multiple perspectives and gives me the flexibility to work on a wide variety of construction projects. It also means I’m constantly learning, adapting, and finding creative solutions.
You are a recent recipient of the UBC Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Award of Excellence. What does this recognition mean to you?
Receiving the UBC Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Award of Excellence was a tremendous honour. The award recognizes efforts to create more inclusive and equitable spaces, and that mission is deeply important to me.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked to support women and underrepresented groups entering the skilled trades through mentorship, advocacy, education, and community engagement. This recognition reminds me that creating lasting change isn’t only about building structures—it’s also about building opportunities for others.
I hope this award encourages more organizations and individuals to continue making the trades welcoming and accessible for everyone.
Do you have a favourite project that you have recently worked on?
One of my favourite projects isn’t a single building—it’s the opportunity to work directly with young people through outreach events like CAGIS.
Whether I’m introducing students to construction tools, explaining how apprenticeships work, or helping someone realize they are capable of building something they never imagined, those experiences stay with me long after the event ends.
Watching young people discover new interests and gain confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of my work, and it’s a reminder of why representation and mentorship matter so much.
You are a fierce advocate for women in the trades and a mentor for women in the industry. What advice would you give to girls and gender-diverse youth who want to pursue a career in the trades?
Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t belong.
The skilled trades need creative thinkers, problem-solvers, leaders, and people who enjoy learning—and those qualities have nothing to do with gender.
Be curious. Ask questions. Try new things. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because that’s how we learn and grow. Find mentors who will encourage and guide you, and remember that confidence grows through experience, not before it. And always remember: safety comes first. No matter how confident or experienced you become, safety must always be the priority.
Most importantly, know that there is room for you in the trades. Your ideas, your perspective, and your talents matter. If building, creating, designing, or solving problems excites you, don’t be afraid to explore a career in the skilled trades. You might discover a passion that changes your life, just as it changed mine.
