Opportunities for women in trades jobs

I'm a female student interested in pursuing a career in the trades. What kinds of opportunities are available for women in this field, and are there any specific programs or resources that might support me?

The trades offer a variety of great opportunities for women, both in fields that traditionally have more gender balance, such as culinary arts and cosmetology, as well as fields where women have been historically underrepresented, such as construction, plumbing, and electrical work. Despite some lingering biases, the industry is increasingly embracing diversity, and there's a push to bring more women into the trades.

Many organizations have been created with the specific aim of boosting female representation in the trades. For instance, Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) provides training and support services to women seeking careers in the construction, utilities, and transportation industries. Other organizations, like the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), offer networking, professional development, and other support.

Trade schools and apprenticeship programs often provide a hands-on, direct path into these careers. For example, the Women in the Trades program by Tradeswomen Inc. is specifically designed to help women enter and succeed in the trades, offering pre-apprenticeship programs and resources to help women get started in these fields.

Lastly, scholarships can provide financial support. For example, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) offers several scholarship programs targeted toward women pursuing education in construction-related fields.

Remember, a career in the trades can be a rewarding and fulfilling path, providing good salary potential, engaging work, and an alternative to the traditional 4-year college route. With the increasing need for skilled tradespeople in many areas, the opportunities for women in this industry are only expected to grow.