Advice to New Tradeswomen from an Old Pipefitter

This week the insulator’s foreman ask me to speak to the female apprentice who just started. He said she's very young and needs guidance. She has been sick all week, so he thinks I need to talk to her about taking care of herself; about eating right and getting enough sleep. Also she is using the portajohns and wants me to tell her where the woman's room is located. I think it's great that at least one man understands that being in construction is tough. Women need other women to talk to about how it affects us differently then men. We can learn tricks of the trades from our male coworkers, but only another woman will help us navigate the maze of work relationships, time management, and the independence of being on equal footing with men financially and career wise. So I asked my fellow tradeswomen (TWC~~thank you!) what advice they would give. These are the gems of wisdom they gave: 1. How to deal with men in terms of sex. This is a biggie! Most women will tell you, don't find your hunny where you make your money!!!! Others will say its okay, but find one and stick to him. What better way to see how a person responds to difficulties and treats other people than by working with them? It is important to hold yourself apart, keep sex out of the equation as best you can and realize you will never be one of the boys. You want to leave a job with them knowing you for the work you did… not for WHO I did. Never let them get too far with their sexual comments. Stick up for yourself by saying it is wrong, uncalled for, and you deserve better. 2. Keep learning and improving your skills. Respect the knowledge others have to offer, and know you can learn something, even if it is what NOT to do, from everyone. Ask other journeymen or your apprentice coordinator what certs or training you may need to level the playing field. Realize that in order to be considered equal you have to do more and learn more than the rest of the crew. Life isn’t fair but that’s the reality. 3. As most women have a smaller body you need to use a different technique than men to lift things. Use your legs they are usually stronger than your arms. Learn to balance things or find a pivot point. It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help. It is a smart person who knows their own limitations. 4. Find a tradeswomen group to support you throughout your apprenticeship; locally or online. There is going to be stuff that happens that men have no idea how to advise on; or would be uncomfortable to talk about. Most men want you to succeed even if only to prove they are trying. Unfortunately, not all women are going to have your back, some are jealous or insecure. Ignore them, and find someone who is willing and able to mentor you. 5. Invest money in a good pair of boots. Buy clothes that fit properly. There are websites, like Rosie’s Work Wear for women’s work clothing. Wear clothes that are comfortable and non-revealing. It’s a job, not a date. 6. Crying; pros and cons. It is still hard on the new girls. I always say never let them see you cry. In other words, let them know you’re strong and determined to stick it out. Eventually you will get their respect. Wear tinted safety glasses if you think you may look a bit teary. If I get teary, it is usually because I am fighting mad. Those who know me back off. I have cried on the job for reasons unrelated to work. I think it is okay for other workers to know you are still a woman who cries when someone she loves dies. It is okay if men cry too! 7. If your hands and feet stop moving when your mouth starts, then shut up. This is most definitely a male issue. If you’re working with another woman and talk, they assume you are talking about shoes, even if you’re not. It is all about perception. Keep moving, grab a broom, clean off your cart, just don’t stand around and talk. Yes, I know the men do it all the time, life isn’t fair. 8. Pay yourself first. We make good money; when we are employed. Set aside 10% of your gross EVERY week and start there. Not in a 401K or other tax deferment plan; actual cash in hand or bank. This money will come in handy when you are laid off/Christmas/road money/emergencies/big item purchases. Money is power and freedom. Save that money! I cannot stress that enough to our incoming trade sisters. 9. Nutrition and rest are crucial. When your muscles cramp from over exertion and you don't know if your body will last the week, you will understand the importance of enough sleep and a healthy diet. Working out is a great way to blow off stress and be a better worker as well. Drink water constantly. Also give yourself some time to relax, a cup of tea or hot bath at the end of the day. You need that time to regroup and consider the day. 10. It gets easier. Do the best you can every day. As you learn more, you will do better. In no time at all you will be looking back and laughing at the mistakes you made, but you will have learned from them. Every day is a new beginning; a chance to grow, to improve, to change the world, or at least your corner of it.