Roger Wakefield hosts a candid conversation with Rachel, a plumbing technician from North Carolina, who shares her personal journey as a woman in a male-dominated industry. This blog post dives into Rachel’s story, explores the real-life challenges and rewards of joining the trades as a female, and offers advice for anyone else—male or female—contemplating a career in construction or plumbing. You’ll learn what it’s like to handle skeptical customers, earn the respect of peers, and rise through the ranks without compromising who you are.
Why Women in the Trades Is Still a Rare Sight
The term “women in the trades” often evokes surprise or skepticism because, historically, construction, plumbing, electrical, and similar fields have been viewed as “men’s work.” Yet women have contributed to these industries for decades, even if the overall percentage remains small. Despite shifting cultural attitudes and more inclusive hiring practices, women still constitute a minority in most construction-related roles.
Overcoming Outdated Stereotypes
In the conversation, Rachel highlights how many homeowners are initially taken aback when a female plumber arrives at their door. This reaction stems from long-standing stereotypes suggesting that physically demanding jobs or technical tasks are better suited for men. Society at large may still be catching up to the idea that women can (and do) excel at every aspect of plumbing, from diagnosing leaks and installing water heaters to running successful companies.
The Rise in Visibility
Due to social media, YouTube, and a greater push for diversity in the workplace, more stories of female tradespeople are emerging. These platforms allow women to showcase their work, expertise, and day-to-day tasks, gradually shifting public perception. Rachel’s presence on Roger Wakefield’s show underscores this growing visibility and encourages other women to join.
Getting Started When You Have No Experience
One of Rachel’s defining experiences was transitioning from being a stay-at-home mom for a decade to entering the plumbing field. She didn’t have advanced formal education or a string of professional credentials on her resume—just a willingness to learn, a strong work ethic, and a family background that introduced her to the trades.
Stepping In Without a Traditional Background
While Rachel’s father was a plumber, she initially had zero intention of following in his footsteps. It was only later in life, when she found herself needing a stable career, that she realized the skills she’d seen in passing could be valuable. This emphasizes an important point: you don’t need to have grown up wanting to be a plumber. Many female tradesworkers start because they see an opportunity for high-paying, satisfying work that doesn’t require a four-year degree.
Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training
Rachel points out that you don’t need extensive schooling to begin learning plumbing. Instead, many companies and local institutions offer apprenticeship programs or entry-level positions where you learn by doing. During these programs, you earn while you train—a major advantage over incurring student debt. Some practical steps include:
- Contacting local plumbing companies to ask if they have apprenticeship openings.
- Checking with community colleges or trade schools that may partner with businesses on training programs.
- Networking with current tradespeople through social media or job fairs.
The biggest key is to remain open-minded, ask questions, and treat every job site as a learning environment.
Handling Customer Reactions: “So, Where’s the Plumber?”
Rachel’s anecdote of walking up to a customer’s door and hearing, “So, where’s the plumber?” is a situation many female tradespeople encounter. Despite living in an era where more women are entering these fields, stereotypes linger. Here are the realities and coping strategies:
Staying Confident in Your Skills
Confidence isn’t built overnight, but every successful repair or installation cements your credibility. When you know your plumbing codes, have your tools in order, and can calmly explain a solution, you diminish any bias the customer initially holds.
Communication Matters
Letting customers know you understand their concerns can quickly diffuse tension. Sometimes, older clients don’t check the text or email that includes your picture and name (as many companies send out). Explaining what you’ll do before starting can reassure them you’re there to solve their problem professionally.
Calling for Backup
Anyone in the trades—male or female—may face unfamiliar issues on a job site. Rachel stresses that if she encounters a particularly complex situation, she’ll phone a colleague. This practice is common among all tradespeople and highlights that consulting a coworker isn’t a sign of weakness but of thoroughness.
Earning Acceptance Among Male Colleagues
Arguably the toughest part of being a woman in a male-dominated environment isn’t the physical tasks—it’s dealing with the social dynamics. From locker-room banter to offhand comments questioning your abilities, you can face a range of responses.
Prove Yourself
It may feel unfair that female tradesworkers have to “prove themselves” more than their male counterparts. Yet Rachel notes that every new plumber, male or female, has to show they can handle the rigors of the job. In many shops, there’s lighthearted betting on how long a new trainee will last. Recognizing that men also go through a hazing period or joke culture may help you see that some of the teasing is not necessarily targeted at your gender, though it can feel that way.
Consistency Over Time
Rachel’s acceptance in the workplace improved after about two years, once coworkers saw her dedication and day-to-day competence. As you consistently arrive on time, show eagerness to learn, and deliver quality results, coworkers and supervisors typically acknowledge your value. That said, if harassment or discrimination becomes severe, it’s crucial to address it through the company’s HR channels or, if necessary, legal avenues.
Building a Support Network
Professional organizations, mentorships, and social media groups designed for women in the trades can offer additional guidance. Connecting with others who’ve walked the same path helps you:
- Share job leads
- Exchange tips and best practices
- Find moral support when dealing with challenging situations
Nailing the Physical Demands
One might wonder if women can handle the physical side of the job—lifting heavy water heaters, breaking through floors, or crawling under sinks. Rachel’s perspective is that if you need help, you ask for it. Many tasks, like hoisting a 75-gallon water heater, are safer with two people, regardless of gender. Adapting to the physical demands often involves:
- Using proper lifting techniques
- Taking advantage of equipment like dollies, hoists, or specialized tools from brands such as Milwaukee
- Maintaining your own fitness through strength-building exercises
Over time, your body adapts. Just as no one enters the trades immediately adept at every skill, you grow into the physical demands as well.
Advice for Women Interested in the Trades
Toward the end of the video, Rachel mentions key insights for anyone—especially women—considering a path in construction or plumbing.
1. Seek an Inspiring Role Model
Whether it’s a local business owner, a well-known plumber on social media, or someone you meet at a trade show, find a person whose career trajectory excites you. This mentor (formal or informal) can provide tips, cautionary tales, and encouragement.
2. Embrace Lifelong Learning
In plumbing, there’s no such thing as “done” when it comes to training. Each new task or job site teaches you something. Approaching every day with curiosity ensures you stay adaptable and open to better methods of working.
3. Research Local Opportunities
Check with trade schools, community colleges, or apprenticeship networks to see where you can enroll. Ask about available grants or scholarships—organizations like Ferguson sometimes collaborate with educational institutions to support future tradesworkers.
4. Don’t Let Doubt Stop You
It’s common to wonder if you’re too old, too young, too inexperienced, or if you “look” the part. Rachel’s story demonstrates that even after a decade as a stay-at-home mom, it’s never too late to start fresh. If you care about working with your hands, solving problems, and supporting public health, plumbing could be a perfect fit.
The Importance of Sponsorship and Community
This blog post (and the related video) is sponsored by Ferguson, a major supplier of plumbing and HVAC products, and it also receives support from Milwaukee, a leading tool manufacturer. Their role in championing women’s involvement in the trades goes beyond marketing. By sponsoring events, training seminars, and showcasing female professionals, these companies broaden access to resources and networks. That helps break down barriers and ensures that people like Rachel can thrive.
Why Partnerships Matter
- Tool manufacturers like Milwaukee design equipment that can reduce strain and make tasks more ergonomic—potentially leveling the playing field for smaller-framed individuals.
- Suppliers such as Ferguson help streamline product sourcing, allowing tradespeople to focus on the craft rather than hunting down components.
- Their collective community outreach encourages more women to see the trades as a viable, fulfilling option.
Final Takeaways: There’s Room for Everyone
“What No One Tells You About Becoming a Female Construction Worker or Plumber” is that many fears or perceived barriers are often bigger in your mind than in reality. Yes, you’ll face skeptics—some coworkers might not welcome you initially, and a few customers might do a double-take. However, trades are fundamentally about skill, consistency, and strong ethics. Once you demonstrate that you know what you’re doing, most of the doubt fades away.
For those on the fence, consider these closing thoughts:
- Plumbing and construction aren’t easy, but they offer well-paid, stable careers.
- You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be willing to learn and adapt.
- Ask questions. Experienced tradespeople are often happy to mentor newcomers, especially those who show genuine interest.
- The industry is evolving to be more inclusive, but sometimes you have to be the first in your company or job site to blaze that trail.
- Being a woman in a predominantly male field can be challenging, but the personal growth and sense of accomplishment are immense.
If you’re drawn to the hands-on nature of building, fixing, and creating, don’t let gender stereotypes hold you back. Follow Rachel’s example: jump in, find a quality training program, and keep learning day by day. Whether you plan to specialize in new construction, service work, or even start your own plumbing company down the road, there’s a place for you. And as more women enter these fields, they’ll collectively reshape the perception of what a “plumber” or “construction worker” looks like.
Above all, remember Rachel’s mantra: “There isn’t anything I can’t learn.” That attitude is what truly sets successful tradespeople apart—female, male, or otherwise. The trades thrive on problem-solving, adaptation, and skill. If you bring a passion for learning and a commitment to excellence, you can carve out a thriving career that’s as individual as you are.
