Yo, let’s keep it real. For a long time, jobs like welding and other hands-on trades were seen as “just for the dudes.” But guess what? That’s old news. Right now, women in Philly and all over the country are stepping into those same jobs—and killing it.
Welding, sterile processing, electrical work—these careers pay well, don’t always need a college degree, and are mad in demand. More women are getting trained up, grabbing those certifications, and showing the world that skills don’t care about your gender. You good at it? You own it.
We know the stereotypes are still out there, but women are proving them wrong every day. Yeah, there’s bias. Yeah, people might doubt you. But with the proper training and mindset, you can shut all that noise down and build a future that’s yours.
Don’t wait for permission. The trades need you. Philly needs you. Let’s get it – as we should understand how the United States is moving toward globalisation and what that means for the future.
At the start of World War II, due to labour shortages, women began welding. But soon after the war ended, they were largely dismissed from their jobs again. For many years, the notion that women do not belong in welding and pipefitting jobs has kept many women out of these professions. In recent times, the story has shifted, and there are more female welders working than before.
Between 2017 and 2022, the number of women working in trades increased from 241,000 to nearly 354,000, representing a 47% rise.
More women are now registering for welding programs in the US and UK than ever before. There has been a significant increase in the number of female students enrolling in welding-specific classes in some areas over the past few years. Such growth indicates a shift is occurring in both the educational world and the way people perceive it.
Women in welding are women who enjoy financial security, independence and help provide for their families. For many people, welding means more than just making a living; it also makes a significant difference in their lives. On top of that, working in positions such as welding and pipefitting gives you union support and long-term job security.
Having women involved in trade workshops helps reverse outdated views and introduces different approaches that are valuable to the industry. Most importantly, what they have achieved has encouraged many other girls to try out sports.
Women are now pursuing careers in welding because these programs offer the opportunity. Through these efforts, people seeking to become welders in the US and UK are gaining the confidence and basic skills to start their careers successfully in the trades.
In the U.S., women who weld are making a difference, while TIG Girls is doing the same in the UK. By pairing technical education with mentorship, such training programs ensure that female welders practice their welding skills on real-world projects.
Women can enrol in welding apprenticeships provided by community colleges and vocational schools that are flexible and invite everyone. The programs work on building both your welding expertise and your job aspirations.
The number of female apprentices in welding grew from 9% in 2019 to 11% in 2023.
They also address the challenges women experience in places where men are the majority, providing tactics to overcome bias and items designed with their needs in mind. It helps you remember things better and feel more confident.
Many success stories of women in welding show that talent is limitless no matter the gender. Women aren’t only finding jobs, but they’re changing what work means for everyone.
When welding becomes a field, it makes companies more effective and increases equality. Welding businesses that embrace gender diversity may perform better in terms of safety, performance, and innovation.
In 2024, 6% of welding, soldering and brazing workers are women.
Many case studies have shown that mixed teams can address challenges more efficiently and perform better. Female welders give a special touch to the work because they bring new ideas and accuracy to the field.
Work environments that include everyone help reduce harassment and make employees happier. Gender diversity in welding is suitable for everyone, not just women.
Employers note that women have a high level of concentration, which leads to fewer mistakes and better results during their weld training.
Some of the biggest names in manufacturing and construction now consider gender inclusion to be critical. They are recruiting women from welding programs because they want to hire more diverse workers and meet the rising demand.
It may be tough, but it is also very satisfying. Several women mention that they like showing people that women are capable of doing such work and love creating tangible results.
The compensation is at market levels. Jobs for those starting can offer around $40,000, but experienced female welders can earn up to $70,000, mainly when they are hired to work underwater or with pipelines.
Absolutely. There is a lot of job stability, pay benefits and a direct way of working. Welding is an excellent option for those who enjoy creating things and improving their skills.
Some women recall being doubted as they first got started. Due to women’s welding programs, the barriers are easing, and women have a real chance to succeed in welding.
Women are entering the field of welding in larger numbers, and this is changing the industry’s culture. Thanks to women in welding and strong welding programs for women, the trades are welcoming more people, developing new skills and staying current. Regardless of the setting, whether it’s a classroom or a construction site, women are helping to change things, one weld at a time.
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