The Skilled Trades Are Not Gender-Specific

MYTH: Women don’t belong in the skilled trades

FACT: Women belong anywhere they want

Anyone can become an expert in a trade they love! Build on your unique strengths and help shape our country’s future – all with the support of a union behind you.

  • Earn while you learn
  • Hands-on learning
  • Mentorship programs
  • Competitive wages and benefits
  • Rewarding work
  • Plenty of room to move up
  • A workforce that welcomes you!

The skilled trades are NOT gender-specific

Check out these testimonials from women about why they love their careers in the unionized skilled trades.

Earn while you learn on your way to a rewarding career

Inclusive environment

There are many women in the skilled trades and unions. Unions across the U.S. continue to work to make the skilled trades a welcoming place for all.

Earning potential

High-paying wages aren’t just for doctors, lawyers and CEOs. Many trades in the U.S. offer excellent starting wages with the potential to earn six figures!

Rewarding careers

Help shape your community’s future by working on projects you can be proud of and that will continue to make an impact for generations!

Work-life balance

Many trades offer more flexibility than a typical 9-to-5 desk job, with a ton of medical and financial benefits that your family can take advantage of.

Start your next career move here!

Explore the trades below to find the best fit for you.

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Boilermaker

Boilermaker

Boilermakers construct, install, and repair large containers and vessels that hold liquids and gases under pressure. This heavy industrial trade requires strength, precision, and technical skill.

Responsibilities

  • Lay out patterns and fit and weld parts together
  • Install, repair, and maintain boilers and heavy-metal products
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Bricklayer

Bricklayer

Bricklayers build and repair walls, partitions, fireplaces, and other structures using brick, block, and stone. Their craftsmanship ensures durability and structural integrity in construction.

Responsibilities

  • Read sketches & blueprints to calculate materials required
  • Measure and construct corners first, using a plumb line & mason's level to ensure level layers
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Cement Mason

Cement Mason

Cement masons work with concrete to build foundations, sidewalks, floors, and other structures. They shape and finish surfaces that form the basis of nearly every construction project.

Responsibilities

  • Place concrete, check formwork and steel reinforcement materials
  • Have knowledge of grouts, epoxy material & concrete curing materials
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Electrician

Electrician

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, lighting, communications, and control systems. They keep construction projects running safely and bring buildings to life with energy.

Responsibilities

  • Read and interpret drawings and electrical code specifications
  • Cut, thread, assemble and install conduits, other electrical conductor enclosures & fittings
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Glazier

Glazier

Glaziers cut, install, and replace glass in windows, skylights, and storefronts. They bring light and visibility to buildings while ensuring safety and energy efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Read and interpret drawings & specifications
  • Measure, cut, fit, install, and/or secure glass panes, window parts & architectural metals
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Heat & Frost Insulator

Heat & Frost Insulator

Insulators install materials that control and maintain temperature in buildings, piping, and equipment. Their work improves energy efficiency, safety, and comfort in industrial and commercial settings.

Heavy/Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver

Heavy/Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver

Truck drivers transport materials, equipment, and supplies to and from construction sites. They keep projects moving by ensuring reliable, on-time delivery.

Iron Worker

Iron Worker

Iron workers assemble and install the structural framework of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Their work provides the backbone of modern construction.

Responsibilities

  • Read blueprints & specifications to lay out work
  • Safely operate tools & equipment
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Painter and Allied Trades

Painter and Allied Trades

Painters and allied tradespeople apply finishes to buildings and structures, protect surfaces from damage, and improve appearance. Their work spans painting, coating, drywall finishing, and surface preparation.

Plasterer & Stucco Mason

Plasterer & Stucco Mason

Plasterers and stucco masons apply plaster, stucco, and decorative finishes to walls, ceilings, and building exteriors. They combine durability with craftsmanship to protect and beautify surfaces.

Responsibilities

  • Installing interior and exterior coatings, including Venetian plaster and specialized textured finishes
  • Applying, leveling, and smoothing coats using trowels, brushes, or spray guns, and creating decorative, or textured finishes
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Plumber & Pipefitter

Plumber & Pipefitter

Plumbers and pipefitters assemble, install, and maintain piping systems for water, gas, and other fluids. Their work is essential to the function and safety of homes, businesses, and industrial sites.

Responsibilities

  • Read blueprints & specifications to determine plumbing layout
  • Locate, mark, join and secure pipe sections
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Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet metal workers fabricate and install ductwork, roofing, siding, and other metal components. Their precision ensures proper ventilation, durability, and energy efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Lay out, measure and mark dimensions according to drawings & templates
  • Supply, install, service and repair air handing equipment, furnaces & fans
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Sprinkler Fitter

Sprinkler Fitter

Sprinkler fitters install and maintain fire protection systems in commercial and residential buildings. Their work is critical to life safety and building code compliance.

Tile Layer

Tile Layer

Tile layers install ceramic, marble, and other types of tile on floors, walls, and surfaces. They combine precision and artistry to create durable, attractive finishes.

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