Women in the BCATP

As the war raged on and more Canadian men enlisted and were sent to serve overseas, the military found itself in an urgent need to fill non-combat roles and support roles.

In June 1941, with the growing need for personnel resources to support the war effort, the Canadian government formally decided to allow the enlistment of women in the armed services. This decision led to the establishment of the Canadian Women's Auxiliary Air Force (CWAAF) Division, a significant milestone in the history of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

Canadian women stepped up to the challenge and filled the crucial gap in learning and in filling crucial skilled aviation-related roles in both the Aircraft Manufacturing Industry and the Air Force.

Initially, only nine Air Force trades were open to women; however, duties expanded as the war progressed, and 69 trades became available. Women became clerks, telephone operators, drivers, fabric workers, hairdressers, hospital assistants, instrument mechanics, parachute riggers, photographers, air photo interpreters, intelligence officers, instructors, weather observers, pharmacists, wireless operators, and Service Police. RCAF regulations at the time precluded women who possessed flying licences from flight instructing or front-line duty.

Many Canadian Women were involved in the success of the BCATP, both as civilians and as members of the Air Force. Most women took on traditional, medical, administrative, clerical and support duties at the Schools across the country. Still, many also enrolled in the BCATP Technical Trade Training School, in the following aviation-related trades: aero-engine mechanic, airframe mechanic, sheet metal worker, and fabric worker. Before the war, these kinds of hands-on positions were filled exclusively by men.  

The RCAF found an excellent source of skilled workers to ensure the smooth operation of the BCATP Schools and Service Depots. The work provided by the Women's Division remains among the most significant contributions to aircrew training.

By the end of World War II, over 17,000 women had served in the RCAF.

Women in the RCAF Today

Today, women comprise 20% of the RCAF. The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are at the forefront of military gender integration. Canada is a world leader in terms of the proportion of women in its military and the areas in which they can serve.

Women can enroll in any CAF occupation, which includes operational trades, and serve in any environment. Today, CAF men and women are selected for training, promotions, postings and career advancement in the same way - based on rank, qualifications and merit.