The trades aren’t just for the guys. Over the years, the number of women entering traditionally male-dominated career fields has been growing steadily. Here at Penn Commercial, we’re seeing more women enroll in our Electrician, HVAC-R and Welding Technology programs than years and decades ago. The ever-growing need for these skilled professionals by local shops, builders and industrial businesses, and the pay that comes with it, is one factor driving this increased interest.
“I decided to pursue Welding to learn valuable trade skills for job opportunities,” says Olivia Bone, a 2024 graduate of the Welding Technology program. “Being a woman in a male-dominated field like welding can actually be an advantage. Women bring unique perspectives and skills to the table, which can lead to fresh ideas and approaches.”
Making the daily trip from Wellsburg, WV, Olivia appreciated multiple aspects of welding that the classes taught her.
“My favorite part about welding is the satisfaction of creating something with my own hands. It’s a craft that allows for both creative and technical skills.”
For another student, career aspirations came second to being able to explore her creativity with a new medium.
“My hopes are to use the skills I have learned while welding and create my own art with metal,” says Audrey Williams, a native of West Newton and also a 2024 grad.
“Coming into this trade, I had absolutely no experience with welding. My favorite part of welding would probably have to be just getting to learn all of the different processes.” Of the different types of welding, stick welding stood out for her.
Both graduates believe being a woman offers several advantages to the welding field.
“Women bring unique perspectives and skills to the table, which can lead to fresh ideas and approaches,” says Olivia. She believes it’s a great field for others like her. “More women should get into welding and other trades, because it offers exciting opportunities and challenges. By breaking gender stereotypes, women can inspire others and contribute their unique skills and perspectives to these fields. Plus, it’s a chance to pursue a fulfilling and rewarding career while making a positive impact.”
“The biggest advantage I have come across is that it’s easier to find a job,” believes Audrey. “Due to such small percentage of women being in this trade more business are looking to fill roles of both genders.”
Audrey also views her career choice as a way to break stereotypes and inspire other women to do what’s in their heart, not what others expect of them.
“I believe more women should get into trades to protest against basic gender standards,” says Audrey. “You will never know what you truly want to do if you don’t have the authority to choose for yourself. I know from personal experiences, I was told I shouldn’t be a welder or ‘Isn’t there any other job you’d rather do?’ I chose what I wanted to do no matter the opinions of others. Not everyone has the option to do that.”
Penn Commercial’s Welding Technology program starts quarterly and is 12 months long.
