I think that one of the biggest obstacle for recruiting women in the CAF is basic training. Every time I have tried to convince a woman to join, this is pretty much always what came up as the deal breaker. I don’t want to be yelled at for no reason. I don’t want to have to run with a ruck to catch up on man. I’m afraid I’m going to injure myself. I don’t think I’m up to it.

I think we should consider having female exclusive BMQ as an opt-in option, just to reduce that perceived barrier from applicants. Same standard and content, just a different staff.

That, and reinforce the idea that they are free to leave at any point during BMQ, without any penalty. You don’t like it? You’re free to leave.