It can be intimidating, but you're not alone
For many women, a career in the trades, and particularly in construction, is an empowering experience. You develop practical skills, while gaining confidence and financial independence.
It's not always easy, though. Let's face it – the construction industry is a long way from achieving true equality. Despite being 48% of Canada’s total workforce, women represent only 5% of the workers in the most in-demand skilled trades.
Now well into my second decade as a tradeswoman (and a Crane and Hoist Equipment Operator grad, class of '13), I want to share my experiences, (hard) lessons, and wisdom I've gained.
I know what it's like to be entirely new to the industry or even just new on the job site. It can be intimidating, but you're not alone (even though you may be the only woman on site).
Across the trades, women share a community and a common bond that unites us. If you're starting in construction or thinking about it, here are 10 tips to help you navigate potential challenges within the trades.
1. Set boundaries
Have you ever let a joke slide, only for it to escalate until the teller’s mere presence made you uncomfortable? Setting and sticking to boundaries early is essential to preventing that.
Many men expect us to be "one of the guys" rather than accepting us as part of the team – revealing resistance to a changing industry. Be aware of your boundaries and speak up. Try to start conversations about the impact of comments on your physical and emotional well-being.
2. Don't be afraid to ask for help (and know when to refuse it)
It doesn't matter if it's your first day as a tradesperson or you've been at it for 30 years – none of us know everything. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. It shows that you're investing in your career, want to learn, and care about safety.
Conversely, some will try to “help” by taking over your work, even when you're competent. That's when knowing how to decline help matters. A simple "I got it!" may suffice, but sometimes you'll need to assert yourself by communicating that you are fully capable of handling the task.
3. Take up space with your presence
Confidence starts with presence. While men often use expansive body language to project confidence, women tend to minimize themselves – something we need to counter. We can do this by using powerful body language: feet planted, shoulders back, and steady eye contact.
Confidence is your strongest asset.
Avoid crossing your arms (projects weakness or defensiveness), fidgeting (shows lack of engagement or nervousness), and rolling your eyes (suggests disrespect). Breathe steadily, speak with ease, and avoid modifiers like "just," "sort of" and "maybe," as they undermine what you are saying. Remember that confidence is your strongest asset.
4. Know your rights and stand up for them
We have the right to be treated with respect, the right not to be harassed, and the right to a safe workplace.
Voicing the desire for bigger opportunities, expressing concerns about a coworker, or reporting harassment can be some of the biggest hurdles women face. It takes work to develop the courage to stick up for ourselves when our rights have been violated. But when you advocate for yourself, you advocate for all of us.
5. Exercise high emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is how you understand and process your emotions. It drives your attitude and reactions toward challenging situations and allows you to shift your perspective to see other people's points of view.
EQ can be developed and harnessed with practise, allowing you to manage your emotions and be the bigger person who keeps calm.
6. Seek equal treatment, not special treatment
We are here to work hard and show the world that there is a place for women in the trades, which means not asking for special treatment. Don't take advantage of your gender so you can do less when you're capable of more. This will not only separate you from your colleagues but also reinforce negative stereotypes.
We are here to work hard and show the world that there is a place for women in the trades.
That said, there's a difference between seeking an unfair advantage and advocating for equity, which means ensuring everyone has what they need to succeed.
7. Be ready for non-inclusive language
My tolerance for non-inclusive language has steadily diminished over the years because language plays a crucial role in women's equality. I've noticed how often men, particularly in the trades, refer to us as "girls" instead of women – a subtle way of undermining our capability and experience.
Then there are the microaggressions based on gender – comments or backhanded compliments. For example, I often hear, “you’re a crane operator? That’s pretty impressive … for a girl!”
I refer to myself as a journeywoman or journeyperson crane operator to reinforce inclusive language. It’s catching on, but we still have a long way to go.
8. Build each other up
Many women in the trades share the feeling of having to work twice as hard for half the respect. If you see another woman at work, say hi, introduce yourself, be friendly, and make her feel welcome. The only way for us to keep moving forward in mostly male-populated spaces is to stick together.
We've come so far as tradeswomen over the decades that we can't afford to regress.
9. Go big in your career
If you've decided to better your life with a career in the trades, never stop progressing! Don't stop at your journeywoman ticket – get your Red Seal Endorsement to show that your skills meet national standards. Then, enhance your business and management skills with a Blue Seal certificate, and boost female representation in trades leadership.
Know what a good leader is and strive to be one.
Even if you’ve not been given the title (yet), know what a good leader is and strive to be one. Never underestimate your ability to influence people and culture.
10. Be choosy about where you work
A company that genuinely celebrates women and encourages more to enter the trades will positively impact your career and growth. Does it have an equity, diversity and inclusion commitment? Does it actively support women on the job? Are women represented in upper management? If so, these are good signs.
But if a company’s only acknowledgment is a token post during Women in Construction Week, look elsewhere, knowing that you deserve better. It’s a rewarding career with countless opportunities. Yes, there will be challenges, but you’ve earned your place. Never let anyone convince you otherwise.
