The construction industry is known for its small gender pay gap, thanks to union representation that provides standard salary packages. Traditionally dominated by men, the skilled trades sector is experiencing a shift as more women are pursuing careers in fields such as construction, carpentry, electricians, welding, and plumbing.
In 2021, women's labor participation in the skilled trades reached a record high of 314,000, marking a nearly one-third increase over five years. The number of female apprentices more than doubled from 2014 to 2022, now comprising 14% of total apprentices in the U.S.
These in-demand jobs offer high wages, attractive benefits like pension plans, and opportunities for career advancement. The construction industry boasts one of the smallest gender pay gaps in the labor force due to standard salary packages provided by unions.
The U.S. is currently facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, with approximately 650,000 workers missing from the construction industry. As demand for qualified workers rises, women have ample opportunities to secure stable jobs in the sector.
With over 40% of workers in the skilled trades sector aged 45 and above, there is a pressing need for a new generation of skilled workers to enter the industry. Data analysis shows a decline in online applicants for construction jobs, emphasizing the urgency to attract more individuals to the trades.
Workers in the skilled trades receive comprehensive benefits packages that include health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay. The earning potential in these careers can reach six figures or more, with the construction industry paying 80% above the average non-farm job in the U.S.
Women in construction earn about 95% of what men earn, showcasing a smaller gender pay gap compared to other sectors. Pursuing a career in the skilled trades offers a faster and less expensive educational track than a traditional four-year degree, enabling quicker entry into the workforce and the autonomy of being self-employed.
While some women may have reservations about joining a male-dominated industry that involves physical labor, the increasing presence of women in the trades is making the sector more inclusive. As more women enter these fields, it paves the way for others to consider careers in the trades, challenging gender stereotypes and fostering empowerment.
