Myths about Women in the Trades

Let's face it, we all either have had, or still may have, preconceived notions of what's considered "women's work." Myths about women in the trades can result in less women entering these non-traditional careers. Armed with the reality of what to really expect in this line of work, we can help students make better informed career decisions. We can also provide this information to parents.

Myth #1: Women will lose their femininity if they work in a trade.

Reality: Women can encounter offensive language anywhere, not just on the job site. While women need to be physically prepared for non-traditional jobs, there is nothing unfeminine about being fit.

Myth #2: Women are not strong enough to do heavy labor.

Reality: The strength requirements for nontraditional jobs are ofen exaggerated. Many non-traditional jobs are less physically demanding than housework, and many traditionally women's jobs, such as nursing and waitressing, are just as physically demanding as some non-traditional jobs. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requires that special equipment be provided for every heavy job, regardless of whether they are being done by men or women. Mechanization continues to decrease the level of physical demand for many jobs. Women have excellent lower-body strength, and with training, can develop strong upper-body muscles as well.

Myth #3: Non-traditional jobs are too dirty, and dangerous for women.

Reality: Non-traditional jobs are often dirty, and sometimes dangerous. However, both men and women must weigh the hazards with the benefits of taking certain jobs. Many traditionally female jobs, like mothering and nursing, are dirty and messy, and some have health hazards, such as radiation and carpal tunnel syndrome. Many women do not mind getting dirty when they are paid a good wage. With proper safety instruction, all workers can minimize the danger they experience on the job.

Myth #4: Women on a job site make it difficult for men to concentrate; they are too distracting.

Reality: It will be different, at first, to have a woman on a work site if an employer has never hired one before. Employers can ensure workers' productivity by telling employees that a qualified women has been hired and that harassment will not be tolerated. While sexual harassment can happen in any work environment, it can be particularly harsh for women working in non-traditional occupations. The problem that must be stopped is the harassing behavior, not women's entrance into the workplace.

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