The national outlook for skilled trades presents a compelling case for increased participation by women. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many skilled trades are experiencing growth rates that outpace the national average for all occupations. For example, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians are seeing projected growth rates of 8% to 14% from 2019 to 2029, significantly higher than the average for all occupations at 4%. This surge is driven by a burgeoning need for new construction, renewable energy projects, and the retrofitting of existing infrastructure to meet modern standards.
Careers in the skilled trades offer not only stability but also a pathway to economic independence and professional growth. The median annual wage for skilled trade workers is often well above the national median for all occupations. For instance, electricians earn a median annual wage of approximately $56,000, with the top 10% earning more than $96,000 annually. In West Virginia, the median annual wage of electricians is higher than the national average, with electricians earning around $60,000 per year plus benefits. Other craft trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, bricklayers, and laborers, have similar salaries.
With the median wage of women in West Virginia coming in at an abysmal $24,791 annually, the push for more women to enter the skilled trades represents not only a potential pathway out of poverty but also an opportunity for significant economic empowerment. The contrast in earnings between traditional roles often filled by women and those in the skilled trades is stark. Initiatives like West Virginia Women Work’s Step Up for Women Pre-Apprenticeship programs are critical in bridging this gap. By providing training and access to higher-paying jobs, these programs aim to elevate women’s earnings and challenge the entrenched disparities within the labor market. Thus, promoting skilled trades as a viable and rewarding career option for women is essential for fostering a more equitable workforce in West Virginia.
In West Virginia, the push for more skilled tradespeople aligns with state and national efforts to bolster local economies and reduce unemployment. The state’s energy, manufacturing, and construction sectors are particularly ripe for growth, presenting unique opportunities for women. However, challenges remain, including a historical gender gap in these fields and a need for targeted training programs.
At the forefront of addressing these challenges is West Virginia Women Work’s Step Up for Women Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program. This initiative is tailored specifically to prepare women for high-demand careers in the skilled trades. The program not only equips participants with the necessary technical skills but also emphasizes safety, professionalism, and resilience—qualities that are indispensable on any job site.
The success stories emerging from the SUFW program are both inspiring and indicative of the program’s impact. Graduates have gone on to secure well-paying jobs in various construction trades, often breaking barriers in fields traditionally inaccessible to women. Their success is a testament to the program’s role in not just training but also empowering women to build rewarding careers.
For women in West Virginia and beyond, the skilled trades offer a viable and lucrative alternative to more traditional career paths. The job stability, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement make these fields particularly attractive. WV Women Work’s SUFW Construction program stands ready to guide more women toward these opportunities, fostering a diverse workforce that can meet the demands of tomorrow’s job market. We invite all aspiring tradeswomen and supporters to explore the possibilities with WV Women Work. Together, we can transform the landscape of skilled trades, building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Written by Carol Phillips, Executive Director, West Virginia Women Work
