Grace T.

How did you get your start in the skilled trades?

I started my career in the trades during COVID. It was hard, contractors were slow on work and didn’t need another person on their crews. It took a while before I ever got a call back. I knew in high school I wanted to work in the trades. I’d take classes in the wood shop and auto shop, learning more hands-on skills. I didn’t know what career I was really interested in, but I started with one and went from there.

What did you do to become successful?

I became successful by listening. Journeymen have the tricks to help you be more successful. They have the knowledge you need to be successful. The saying “listen twice as much as you speak” is what I live by in the trades. There are always new skills to learn. It may take you down a path you never thought of. I’ve started welding and learned it’s pretty fun.

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

Learning to speak up was challenging. I never felt like I had any tips to give. I also didn’t want to sound dumb if I would speak incorrectly or ask a silly question. The thing that helped me with this is reminding myself that every journeyperson was once the student. We are here to learn and they are here to teach.

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

I say do it, it’s a good career! If you think you are too weak, there are tools to help. Be ready to learn and be on your feet.

Read more advice and tips at Voices in the Trades.