For decades, the skilled trades have been seen as a man’s world—but that’s changing. More women are rolling up their sleeves, picking up the tools, and proving they belong in every part of the industry, from HVAC and plumbing to electrical work and construction. While their numbers are growing, women still represent a small percentage of the workforce—meaning there’s a tremendous opportunity for businesses ready to embrace a more diverse talent pool.
At the same time, the industry faces a growing labor shortage, making it more important than ever to welcome new talent. Expanding recruitment efforts and creating inclusive workplaces isn’t just about fairness—it’s a strategic move that can strengthen the entire field. Women are a huge untapped resource, and businesses that recognize this early will have the competitive advantage.
In this blog, we’ll look at the progress women have made in the trades, the challenges they still face, and how your business can lead the way in building a more inclusive workforce.
Women in the Trades: The Numbers Tell the Story
It’s no secret that the trades have a representation problem. Women make up:
- 11% of the construction industry workforce (including office and management roles), but only 4% of frontline construction trades workers on job sites.
- 1.5% of HVAC mechanics and installers in 2021.
- 2% of U.S. electricians.
- Under 2% of licensed plumbers.
More women are steadily entering the trades, bringing fresh talent and perspectives to the industry. Enrollment in trade schools and apprenticeships is increasing, and female-owned trade businesses are gaining momentum, with about 7% of HVACR companies now run by women. Additionally, trade organizations are ramping up efforts to recruit and support women, recognizing their vital role in addressing the industry’s labor shortage.
What does this mean for you? If you’re struggling to find skilled workers, looking beyond the traditional applicant pool could be the solution.
Trailblazers: Women Who Paved the Way
Women have been proving they belong in the trades for decades. In 1951, Lillian Baumbach Jacobs became the first female master plumber.
Since then, pioneers like Adrienne Bennett, the first Black female master plumber, and Tonya Hicks, the first Black woman journeyman in the state of Mississippi, have opened doors for others to follow. Judaline Cassidy, a trailblazing plumber and founder of Lean In Women In Trades and later Tools & Tiaras, has dedicated her career to inspiring young girls to enter the trades. These women, among many others, continue to redefine what’s possible in skilled trades.
Today, organizations like Tools & Tiaras and Women in HVACR are dedicated to inspiring and equipping the next generation of tradeswomen. By offering mentorship, scholarships, and networking opportunities, they help women build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in industries where they have historically been underrepresented.
The Challenges: Why More Women Aren’t in the Trades
So if the industry needs workers, and women are proving they can do the job, why aren’t more of them joining the trades?
- Bias in Hiring – Some companies still hesitate to hire women for hands-on trade roles. Even when women do get hired, they often have to work harder to prove themselves.
- Workplace Culture – Many job sites are still male-centric, and women report feeling isolated or unwelcome. Harassment remains a serious issue, with 26.5% of tradeswomen saying they experience frequent harassment at work.
- Lack of Representation—Women often don’t see role models in the industry, making it harder for them to envision a career path.
- Training and Advancement Barriers – Many women don’t have the same access to informal networks that help workers land jobs and promotions.
The good news is that these challenges can be addressed with the right approach. And businesses that tackle them head-on will be the ones that attract and retain top talent.
How Your Business Can Lead the Change
The future of the trades depends on bringing more people—especially women—into the workforce. Here’s how you can be part of the solution:
1. Rethink Your Hiring Practices
- Partner with trade schools and organizations that support women in trades.
- Make sure job postings are gender-neutral and inclusive.
- Actively seek out female candidates instead of waiting for them to apply.
2. Create a Welcoming Workplace
- Provide proper-fitting PPE (personal protective equipment) for women.
- Ensure job sites have adequate restroom facilities for all workers.
- Enforce a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination.
3. Offer Mentorship and Training
- Pair new hires with experienced mentors.
- Support women’s networking groups and training programs.
- Encourage female employees to pursue leadership roles.
4. Showcase Women in the Trades
- Feature female employees in your marketing and recruitment efforts.
- Share success stories to inspire the next generation of tradeswomen.
- Celebrate Women in Construction Week and similar initiatives.
At CI Web Group, we walk the talk. As a woman-owned digital marketing agency specializing in the trades, we know firsthand how important diversity is in building a strong business. Our CEO, Jennifer Bagley, leads a team of over 100 employees, more than half of whom are women, and she has intentionally cultivated a culture that uplifts female talent.
“Women should be empowered to grow their careers,” Bagley emphasizes—a philosophy reflected in CI Web Group’s hiring practices and partnerships. As a member of Women in HVACR, CI Web Group actively advocates for skilled trades as a rewarding career path for everyone, regardless of gender. When women not only work in trades but also lead allied businesses, it reinforces the message that women have a vital place at every level of the industry.
We work with HVAC, plumbing, and construction companies to help them attract top talent, including more women in the workforce. Your online presence plays a significant role in shaping your company’s image—if you want to show that your business is forward-thinking and inclusive, your website and marketing need to reflect that.
The Future of Women in Trades
The trades are changing. Every year, more women step onto job sites, open businesses, and take on leadership roles. The industry still has a long way to go, but momentum is building.
The question is: will your business be part of that change?
If you’re serious about building a skilled, diverse workforce, it’s time to take action. Whether it’s updating your hiring practices, improving workplace culture, or simply sharing stories of the women in your company, every step makes a difference.
Your company’s online presence should demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity and innovation. CI Web Group helps home service businesses attract skilled professionals, build a strong brand, and stand out in the industry. Let’s collaborate to position your business as a leader in the trades—connect with us today!
