Megan W.
How did you get your start in the skilled trades?
I worked as a concierge specialist at the Salt Lake City branch of Ferguson for several years (I was always curious about HVAC but I assumed I just “couldn’t” ever understand something that complicated) and later in the parts division of another supply house, when the owner of an HVAC company came up and told me on a random Friday afternoon that I was going to be his “next and best HVAC service tech.” I literally laughed sooo hard at him because the idea seemed ridiculous to me but realized he was serious. I took the weekend to think about it and decided, “Why not? If the guys can do this and be successful, then I can as well!!” And just like that I entered into the BEST career decision I have ever made by entering the HVAC/home services industry. I never would have dreamt of enjoying my job to the degree that I do and becoming a level of successful that has opened up an entire world of possibilities for myself and my family.
What did you do to become successful?
Hard work. And more hard work. Perseverance really does pay off. I bought the right tools and invested in myself by continually trying to learn new things every single day. Most importantly I became successful because I accepted that the hardest days as a tech are actually the days you become a better tech and continue to grow in your trade.
What obstacles have you encountered, and how did you overcome them?
Being a female technician in the field is a constant obstacle course you deal with on a daily basis. I find confidence in myself has helped me undergo the constant scrutiny over my gender that females face. I often find I have to work harder to be taken more seriously or deflect comments about my appearance but the best line of defense is to know your stuff and believe in yourself at all times.
What advice do you have for women wanting to get into the trades?
Do not ever give up!!! Let people’s doubts in you act as fuel for your fire! Just keep going and know that your success will also help open doors and opportunities for future tradeswomen.
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