Dispelling Myths about Women in the Trades

When it comes to women in trades, myths run rampant. However, these myths simply aren’t true and should not discourage women from pursuing a rewarding trade career. Through our Girl Power initiative, Pennco Tech proudly stands behind women who decide on entering traditionally male-dominated trades. Here, we dispel some common myths pertaining to women working in the trades.

Myth: Women aren’t strong enough to work in the trades.

Fact: A common misconception about a career in trades is that you need to be a strong, tough man to be successful. One of the first things you will hear when discussing women in the non-traditional workplace is that they are physically not strong enough and incapable of handling the physical demands of the job. Strength is a useful attribute to have, and while most men may typically have more lean muscle than women, that does not mean women aren’t capable of completing tasks that require strength. By allowing women to determine the most efficient way to carry large amounts of weight, putting most of the weight on their hips or shoulders, it’s evident that women can do the same job as men.

Myth: Non-traditional jobs are dirty, and women aren’t comfortable with that.

Fact: This idea stems from the false notion that women only care about their appearance and don’t want to engage in any activity that would jeopardize their looks. This is nothing but a societal misconception. There is nothing wrong with being against working in dirty conditions or outdoors in the heat, dust, or snow. However, thinking only one gender feels this way is the true problem.

Myth: There’s no place for women working in the trades.

Fact: The sentiment that women don’t belong in the trades is an outdated stereotype that needs to be corrected. The fact is that more and more people are retiring from trade jobs, and not enough younger people are entering the skilled trades. Women are playing a pivotal role in filling trade jobs that are needed and proving themselves to be capable, reliable, and productive workers.

Myth: Women aren’t qualified to work in trades.

This myth reflects the common misconception that only men can work in trades. With the proper training and schooling, women are just as qualified as men to perform the tasks necessary to be successful when working trade jobs. Through our various trade programs, Pennco Tech will adequately teach women how to perform their duties, ensuring they are more than qualified and confident upon graduation.

Don’t Let Old Stereotypes Stop You from Pursuing a Trade

The skilled trades require agility, endurance, balance, and coordination – not a specific gender. In today’s trade industry, men and women work together as members of the same team. Pennco Tech encourages women in New Jersey and Pennsylvania to pursue a fulfilling career in the trades. To learn more about our trade programs, and the resources we offer our students, please contact us today.