Trades Jobs for Women: Opportunities and Experiences?

I'm curious about what kinds of trade jobs are accessible and welcoming for women. Are there any specific trades that are better in terms of inclusivity or growth? I'm considering a trade career after high school and would love some insights.

You're wise to look into the trades as a viable path after high school if you're interested in them. Despite the historic trend of trade jobs being male-dominated, there's been a big push in recent years to encourage more women to enter trades. Here's a general overview and some suggestions:

1. Electricians: There's a growing demand for electricians and many, including women, find the work rewarding. It offers great pay and it's a skill that's in high demand. It's a continually evolving field, too, with the rise of green energy solutions.

2. Carpentry: Carpentry is another trade that many women have found success in. In addition to construction, there are other sub-categories of carpentry including cabinetmaking or finish carpentry, which involves the finishing touches on a construction project like molding and trim.

3. Plumbers and HVAC Technicians: These fields have excellent job prospects, and HVAC techs in particular are needed for modern green installations and improvements.

4. Welding: Welding is becoming more common among women, and there are programs available to help women get into this field.

5. Automotive Technicians: This is another field that has seen an increase in female representation. In addition to working as a mechanic, there are opportunities in auto body repair and custom work.

Regarding inclusivity, it's important to note the improved push for diversity in trade careers, and there are many organizations out there promoting and supporting women in the trades. For example, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and Women in HVACR are organizations that provide mentoring, networking, and educational opportunities. But remember, the culture can vary greatly from company to company and place to place, so it's important to research potential employers to see if they'll be a good fit for you.

The growth potential in trades is also generally promising. Many trades offer clear advancement paths to positions such as supervisors or inspectors, or even owning your own business. Furthermore, trade careers offer continual learning opportunities as technology and materials improve and evolve.

Remember trades careers also enjoy job security as they are essential services and can't be outsourced. At the end of the day, the best trade is the one that interests you the most and aligns with your personal skills and interests. Hope this helps, and good luck with your decisions!