Karen L.

How did you get your start in the skilled trades?

At 36 years old, I answered a classified ad for a carpenter’s helper. My husband had suggested that I stop tearing up the house until I knew how to put it back together myself. I put together a pros and cons list of why they should hire a 125-pound woman with no work history.

What did you do to become successful?

I listened and researched. I learned the trade from the ground up. I hauled shingles and plywood up ladders. I drove the dump truck (through many tears of anxiety). I drove nails, hung sheetrock, climbed up rafters and under floor joists. I self-taught myself QuickBooks and developed a way to track estimated costs against real costs. I developed a handyman division by doing my own research for my company.

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

Strength—it eventually came with the job. I used my steel-toed boots when lifting. Heights—I was afraid of heights. Fall protection is your friend and your lifeline. Only female on the jobsite—I ignored the comments that I overheard about me. I think I earned respect because I was older, didn’t complain or call in sick and always gave it my best. If I didn’t know how, I asked.

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

Confidence will come with experience. Gravitate to those who are willing to teach you. Customer service extends beyond the paying customer. Extend this to everyone you work with. Do your research so you are always one step ahead. That will make you a valuable employee. Love what you do. It will show in your performance. Invest in good work boots and eye protection. Work and family balance is easy. You’ll have great stories to share.

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