In one of our Congress sessions this year, we’re going to do something a little bit different. Rather than just talking about hiring more women, TIAC is moving the industry to action, with a pledge for the advancement of women in your businesses.

Let’s take a moment and look at women in the tourism industry. According to 2016 Census data (documented neatly for us by our friends at Tourism HR Canada), women make up 51.4% of the tourism workforce. This is slightly more than the overall Canadian Labour Force (48.2%), but where we see the most interesting data is when we break it down by sector.

Well over 50% of our workforce identifies as female in the accommodations, F&B and travel services sectors. Unfortunately, the transportation sector only boasted about 28% participation of women in the workforce. Recreation and entertainment are also below the national average at 47.2% employment.

So, Congress-goers, where does your business and industry fall in those numbers? If your one of the top 3, what percentage of women are in management and leadership positions? What are you doing to make sure everyone is getting a fair shot? If you’re in recreation or transportation, what barriers are women facing, and how can the industry help you do better?