Ali G.

How did you get your start in the skilled trades?

I took a woman-led welding class about a year and a half ago on a whim. I had always wanted to try it and when my talented instructor told her story to us, I said, “Why not me?” in my head. I spent the next six months researching the best route to enter the trades. This would easily be the biggest change I would make in my life. I come from an administrative background of 13 years, with my master’s degree in healthcare management. My dad has a history in a variety of non-union trades including carpentry, locksmithing and boat building, but I always thought I was meant for the office. He unfortunately had a stroke in October 2022, and the event opened my eyes to how short life was. I wanted to fill mine with as many memories and experiences and places as possible, so I quit my 3-plus-year job as a brokerage manager and life/health insurance agent and applied to Local 15.

Fast forward almost a year and here I am as the most employed female apprentice in my first-year class. I currently am working to repair the largest/longest bridge in the state of Connecticut, and I love it. Never have I laughed more at work, gotten so much recognition of my hard work and found a place where I fit in. I hope my story inspires other women to make a change they’ve always felt was impossible to them. Eventually I hope to be involved in union politics and teach. The trades have been a huge force in affecting my confidence, character, and integrity on- and off-site.

What did you do to become successful?

I took the time to find the best path for me. A welding program in college was attractive but I already had acquired a lot of student debt as a result of three degrees. My local offered a free women’s welding program and it seemed like the perfect opportunity to join them. I’m a student at heart, but studying and practicing my skills is a huge part of my success. Having a positive attitude and showing up to work every day, finding the joy in the mundane tasks, and never giving up even though I’ve made mistakes and struggled to become proficient have also helped. I found a lot of support on social media, too. Even though I am constantly challenged on the job, I always give 100%.

What obstacles have you encountered, and how did you overcome them?

I believe entering a trade as a woman is daunting for anyone! There’s a huge target on your back right away to be judged or criticized. I may be the smallest apprentice in our local but it’s also shown me how valuable I am in certain situations. I take a lot of pride in what I do, so being able to represent the community as a whole and prove I can succeed is something that drives me every day to become better.

What advice do you have for women wanting to get into the trades?

Don’t let your doubts get in the way of your goals. Don’t let that first step stop you from taking the next and then the next. Being able to see the progress I’ve made over the last year in the field still blows my mind but that’s what it is about. Everyone is new to it in the beginning. Mistakes are what make you a better tradeswoman. Find what works for you and leave the rest. People may always be saying something about you, either behind your back or to your face, but it’s ultimately the reputation you gain as a tradesperson that sets the tone and carries you to the next opportunity. Finally, talk to people and ask questions! You never know who will have something valuable to share, whether knowledge or networking-wise.

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