Building a Successful Career as a Woman in Manual Trades

All the AI experts are telling us that the one safe industry for jobs in the next 10 years is manual trades. Those are industries that have traditionally been heavily male-dominated, with women still making up less than 5% of jobs in skilled trades, such as plumbing, electrical, and carpentry. There are a few more women in painting and decorating – 10-15% – but it’s still a tiny proportion. This in itself is a flashing light shouting: great opportunity.

For a start, there is a shortage everywhere of people with those manual trades skills.

And many customers, particularly women, feel more comfortable having another woman working in their home.

Being a female tradesperson can be a marketing advantage –  you’ll stand out and be more memorable.

So if you are thinking this might be a fabulous career, here are seven important steps to help you to get started and move ahead.

1. Choose your trade

The first step towards building a successful career in manual trades is to identify and embrace a specific trade. Try some short courses at your local college to get a sense of the different trades, before signing up for a qualification at college or through an apprenticeship. You could also explore different trades through volunteering or shadowing opportunities to gain practical exposure and insight into the work involved.

2. Seek Mentorship and Support

Finding mentors and supportive networks is invaluable when starting a career in manual trades. Look for individuals, both men, and women, who are experienced in your chosen trade and are willing to guide and mentor you.

Mentors can offer advice, share their knowledge and experiences, and provide valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, seek out women-specific support groups or organizations that offer resources, training, and networking events tailored to women in manual trades.

3. Acquire the Necessary Skills and Education

If you want to get employment in manual trades, then you will need a qualification. Explore various training options offered by your local further education college, or through hands-on apprenticeships, or trade-specific programs. These programs offer hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and certifications that are highly valued in the industry. Continuously invest in your professional development by attending workshops, seminars, and industry events to stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and technologies.

4. Showcase Your Skills and Expertise

Build a portfolio of your work, including photographs, project descriptions, and client testimonials. Develop a professional website or social media presence to display your achievements and share your knowledge through blog posts or video tutorials. By establishing a strong online presence, you can attract potential clients, employers, and industry leaders who recognize and appreciate your abilities.

These days it’s also useful to showcase your work on relevant platforms and those can also be good places to find builder Job Leads / builder jobs.

5. Build a Strong Network

Networking is an essential aspect of any career, and manual trades are no exception. Join local business networks and professional associations to burnish your credentials and expand your network. Engage with industry professionals, potential clients, and fellow tradespeople to build connections, share knowledge, and stay informed about job opportunities.

6. Develop Strong Communication Skills

Effective communication is key to building a successful career in manual trades. Develop strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey your ideas, instructions, and concerns. Clear communication helps establish trust, fosters positive working relationships, and ensures smooth collaboration with clients, colleagues, and contractors. Additionally, cultivating good listening skills is equally important as it allows you to understand clients’ needs and address any issues promptly.

7. Embrace Continuous Learning

Manual trades are ever-evolving fields with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. To stay competitive, embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Invest in upgrading your skills, whether it be learning new software, mastering advanced equipment, or acquiring additional certifications. This commitment to learning demonstrates your dedication to professional growth and positions you as a valuable asset in the industry.

Wrap up

It is a great time to become a woman in manual trades. It’s one of the few industries that are currently seen as safe from the AI revolution. And when you have gained qualifications and experience, it’s an industry that can embrace either steady jobs or freelance and flexible work that can fit around your life stage and commitments.

By focusing on the strand of manual trades that you find most rewarding, seeking mentorship, acquiring the necessary skills, networking, developing strong communication skills, showcasing your expertise, and embracing continuous learning, you can thrive in this traditionally male-dominated industry. Remember, your success will not only contribute to your personal growth but also inspire and pave the way for future generations of women in manual trades.