Naa Atswei Mawufemor Lomo 
If you’re looking for the best skilled trade for a woman who craves the satisfaction of hands-on work and is ready to excel in a fulfilling career, this path might be your perfect fit. Dive into the myriad opportunities awaiting women in this empowering domain and unlock a future of growth and achievement.
The landscape of skilled trades is changing, with a rising number of women venturing into areas such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. Explore the unexpected opportunities in the Best Skilled Trade for a Woman, ranging from construction roles to carpentry, as the array of options continues to expand.
Let’s explore the exciting opportunities in these hands-on, high-demand fields.
Table of Contents
The Rise of Women in Skilled Trades
Women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, yet remain underrepresented in many trades. Only 8.9% of construction managers were women in 2023, highlighting significant growth opportunities in fields like plumbing.
Despite these gaps, women have made strides in education and entrepreneurship, with 47.2% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher and women-owned businesses generating $2.7 trillion annually. Encouraging women to pursue diverse career paths can further strengthen their impact on the economy and society DOL (Independent Women’s Forum) (McKinsey & Company).
The Best Skilled Trade for a Woman is witnessing significant progress in vocational occupations. Between 2020 and 2022, there was a notable 7% growth in construction jobs for women.
Presently, the number of women in trades has surged by almost one-third compared to five years ago, reaching a peak of 314,000 tradeswomen in 2021.
Breaking barriers in male-dominated fields
Women in electric, HVAC, and automotive mechanics are challenging old norms. Groups like Women in HVACR and Tools and Tiaras push for more inclusion and support. Today, women hold 14% of apprenticeships, a big jump from 2014.
Benefits of pursuing a hands-on career
Skilled trades are great for women. They offer good pay, with average salaries around $65,000 in fields like plumbing and electrical. Welding also opens doors, even if women earn less than men in the first year.
Cost-effective alternative to traditional college education
Trade schools are cheaper than college. They cost between $5,000 and $15,000, much less than college’s $16,318 a year. Apprenticeships let women learn on the job, gaining skills and knowledge in under two years.
“Making the trades more welcoming to women would have a positive impact on the industry,” say 9 out of 10 tradespeople.
As more women join trade career, they set an example. They encourage others to follow, helping solve the industry’s worker shortage.
Understanding Skilled Trade Jobs for Women
Skilled trade jobs are great for women who want hands-on work and good pay. These jobs need special training in skills, safety, and how to use equipment. Now, more women are choosing careers like carpentry, plumbing, and automotive technology.
Women in masonry and construction are making their mark in fields once dominated by men. Even though they make up just 4% of trades workers, they earn 1.5 times more than in traditional jobs. The starting pay in trades is about $47,146, with some jobs paying even more.
“Skilled trade empowering women is not just a trend, it’s a revolution in the workforce.”
Women in construction get job security and higher pay. Construction managers can make over $95,000 a year. Other high-paying jobs include:
- Dental hygienists: $76,000+ median salary
- Electricians: $63,545 average base salary
- Plumbers: $60,090 average salary
“A vocational school in the trade industry, specializing in hands-on skilled trades like carpentry and electrical repair, offers on-the-job training that provides valuable problem-solving opportunities.
Trade school costs between $5,000 and $15,000, much less than college, making it a smart choice for women to pursue rewarding careers in air conditioning and other skilled trades without accumulating significant debt.”
Top Paying Skilled Trades for Women
Skilled trades offer diverse opportunities for women seeking high-paying careers. These roles combine technical expertise with hands-on work. They provide a fulfilling path for those who enjoy practical challenges.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists earn a median salary of $77,810 per year. This role requires an associate degree and a state license. It’s a great option for women interested in healthcare and oral hygiene.
Construction Manager
Construction management is a lucrative field with a median salary of $61,640 annually. This role typically needs a bachelor’s degree in construction-related fields. It’s perfect for women who excel at project management and enjoy the building process.
Service Technician
Service technicians, including female HVAC technicians, have diverse opportunities. HVAC technicians earn a median salary of $48,630 per year. This field requires vocational training and hands-on experience.
Electrician
Women electricians are increasingly joining this high-demand field. Electricians earn a median salary of $60,040 annually. This career requires a high school diploma, completion of an apprenticeship program, and state licensing in most cases.
Other lucrative options include plumbing careers for women, with plumbers earning a median salary of $59,880 per year. These careers offer stable income, job security, and the satisfaction of solving practical problems daily.
Best Skilled Jobs for Women: Factors to Consider
Choosing the right skilled trade as a woman requires careful thought. Your choice can lead to a fulfilling career with great pay and chances for growth.
Personal Interests and Aptitudes
First, think about what you like and what you’re good at. Are you interested in welding jobs for women, or do you like the challenge of automotive mechanics? Perhaps you’re drawn to carpentry? Look at your technical skills, how detailed you are, and how well you communicate.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Many skilled trades require physical work. For example, construction might need you to lift heavy stuff. Welding can be done in tough places. Think about how much you can handle physically and what kind of work setting you’re okay with.
Career Growth Potential
The skilled trades have a lot of room to grow. With only 10% of construction workers being women, there’s a lot of opportunity. Many trades are short on workers, which means they need skilled people. Here are some numbers to think about:
- Median annual wage for welders: $50,460
- Median annual wage for electricians: $65,280
- Median annual wage for mechanics: $49,690
Apprenticeships last 3-4 years and can pay you 35% more than similar non-union jobs. They also give you a certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor, which can help your career.
“Making the trades more welcoming to women would positively impact getting more people involved,” say 9 in 10 tradespeople.
Think about these things to pick a skilled trade that fits your interests, skills, and career goals.
Training and Education Pathways
Women looking to enter skilled trades have many training and education options. Trade schools and community colleges offer programs for specific trades. These programs give you hands-on experience and the knowledge you need for a career in your chosen field.
Apprenticeships are key in learning skilled trades. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Women’s Bureau has given $7.4 million in grants to help women get into apprenticeships. This money helps women get into fields like construction, manufacturing, and transportation where they’re often underrepresented.
These efforts have made a big difference. From 2014 to 2022, the number of female apprentices almost doubled. Women now make up about 14% of all apprentices. Groups like Chicago Women in Trades and Nontraditional Employment for Women in New York are helping more women join the construction industry.
- Trade schools offer specialized programs
- Apprenticeships provide hands-on training
- Government grants support women’s entry into trades
- Community organizations offer additional support
When picking a skilled trade, think about the training you need and the education options available. Some trades need special certifications or licenses, which can vary by location. Many employers also offer training on the job to help you gain practical skills.
“Education is the key to unlocking opportunities in skilled trades for women.”
With the right training and education, you can be part of the growing number of women in skilled trades. In 2021, over 314,000 women worked in trades, which is a 33% increase in five years. By using the resources and programs available, you can start a fulfilling career in skilled trades.
Overcoming Challenges in Male-Dominated Industries
Women in skilled trades face big challenges. From masonry to construction and electricians, they deal with gender stereotypes and bias. Only 11.8% of construction workers are women, showing how rare they are in these fields.
Addressing gender stereotypes
It’s key to fight off old ideas. Women in these fields often feel watched and must prove themselves more than men. By showing their skills and knowledge, women can break down these stereotypes and open doors for others.
Building a support network
Building connections with fellow women in the construction and trades industry is vital. Mentorship programs and groups tailored for women in professions like carpentry and electrical repair provide valuable support and networking opportunities.
Certain states require attention to detail and strong communication skills in these professions, with specialized programs aimed at reducing stigma and facilitating guidance and connections for women.
It’s essential to build experience in the field and hone problem-solving skills in order to thrive in these fields known as the best trades for women. It’s important to keep interactions civil and respectful in these environments.
Conclusion
Choosing a career in a skilled trade can be a rewarding and empowering decision for women. From becoming an electrician to mastering carpentry, the opportunities are vast and fulfilling. These careers not only offer stability and excellent earning potential but also a sense of accomplishment and independence.
As more women break into these fields, they’re not just building successful careers but also paving the way for future generations. So, if you’re considering a skilled trade, know that you’re stepping into a world of possibilities where your talents and skills can truly shine. Embrace the challenge, and let your career soar!
