By Jalynn Bugaj
F&S customer relations & communications intern
At F&S, women are transforming the trades by showing that skill and dedication come in all forms. By challenging old stereotypes and leading with expertise, they’re setting a new standard for success in the industry.
Women who work in crafts and trades, fields traditionally dominated by men, often encounter unique challenges related to perceptions of their skills, capabilities, and overall contributions. Despite these obstacles, they bring a diverse perspective and valuable expertise to their roles.
Stereotypes can place a significant burden on women working in the trades, creating a challenging environment where they often face misconceptions and biases. However, the women at F&S agree that their workplace fosters a collaborative environment where everyone is helpful and engaged.
The supportive nature of their colleagues, combined with F&S’s dedication to diversity, plays a crucial role in creating a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best, significantly enhancing their overall work experience.
“While there are barriers that I have to work to break due to the culture we all exist in, I have met some of the most amazing people here willing to support me and make sure I have the tools to succeed,” said Laura Abbott, pipefitter apprentice.
“As a union member, the fact that I am not needing to travel long distances within my local is a big plus! All of the tradespeople I have met are very respectful,” said Dawn Rambole, sheet metal worker. Rambole has been with F&S for 19 years.
“The university is a very inclusive and diverse workplace. I’ve met people from all walks of life, with a vast variety of knowledge,” said Jordyn Brock, pipefitter apprentice.
Enhancing Diversity in Trades
When asked how organizations and workplaces can further support diversity and inclusion, particularly for women in crafts and trades, a common theme emerged: the need to raise awareness within the school system. Many young women may not consider the trades as a viable career path simply because they lack exposure or awareness of these opportunities.
“There could be more awareness for young people that the trades are a good option for all sexes. If a female likes being active and creating with their hands, a trade may be a job they enjoy that pays well. They say choose a job you love and never work a day in your life,” said Rambole.
“The problem for me is kids not knowing trades are an option for them,” said Brock.
For Abbott, outreach is the answer. “Finding schools and programs where we can make early impacts and demonstrate what we do,” she replied.
From Teaching to Trades
Abbott, who spent five years as a middle school physical education teacher before transitioning to the trades, describes the switch as exactly what she was seeking in her career. She notes that her teaching background has been beneficial in her new role.
“Going through the teacher education process and learning how to learn helps me every day in my career. The problem-solving processes, critical thinking, and knowing how to best use my available resources have made me very good at my job,” Abbott said. “I would say too, that having taught, I carry with me some of that same spirit and desire for the betterment of community that originally drew me into teaching. The opportunities are just different.”
Abbott explains that although she enjoyed teaching and was successful at it, several key factors prompted her career change. One significant factor was the emotional and spiritual demands of the profession, a reality that Abbott found increasingly challenging, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic with its shifts between remote, hybrid, and in-person learning.
Abbott felt that her “spirit and energy” would be best spent in a different line of work, which is why she transitioned to her current role as a pipefitter.
“I leave this job every day happy. I have enough money in my wallet and enough mental and emotional reserve left to live my life after hours. That was something I didn’t always have in my teaching career,” said Abbott. “I get to learn something new every day in my job. There is always a new aspect of my work to refine. I feel a sense of pride in the work I do that I didn’t always feel before. I can see where I began and where I am now and be proud of that growth.”
“It’s also such a unique learning environment and very different from a traditional schooling background. I get to work with people from so many different back grounds and skill sets, and I get to take bits and pieces of knowledge from them and synthesize my own work ethic and skill toolbox. The direct one to one mentorship you can get out of this teaching style is amazing,” Abbott added.
Encouraging Women in Trades: Advice, Support, and Opportunities
For women considering a career in the crafts and trades, the women at F&S encourage taking the leap. They share that pursuing this path has been a decision they have never regretted. Embracing a career in these fields has provided them with a profound sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
“My advice for women interested in the trades is, do it! You want a job to support yourself or your family? Teach you the necessary skills to do the job properly and safety? Always have someone to answer your questions, no matter how small? Visit your local union and they can help get you started! Oh, and if you’re ever intimidated, remember all you need is a taller ladder and a ‘cheater bar,'” said Brock.
“You are your own best advocate, seize every opportunity with both hands, and take that risk,” said Abbott.
Abbott, tired of feeling isolated on occasion, collaborated with other like-minded individuals to set up a group called Coalition of Labor Unions for Women or CLU-W, where women of any union or trade can come together to create a space to discuss struggles and get support. Other wellness initiatives include finances, women’s healthcare, and childcare. The group is open to anyone who wants to join.
“If you take pride in your quality of workmanship your work can leave a lasting legacy for generations to come,” said Rambole.
The women of F&S are not just skilled laborers: they are pioneers in their fields. Their dedication and expertise speak volume, shaping a more inclusive and resilient campus community at the heart of F&S and paving the way for future generations.