High-Paying Trades for Women: Breaking the Stereotypes and Earning Big

The world of trade careers has long been dominated by men, but the landscape is starting to show signs of change. Women are breaking stereotypes and stepping into high-paying trade jobs that offer lucrative incomes, job stability, and career satisfaction.

If you're a woman considering a career change or planning your future, it's time to explore the highest-paying trades for women and take advantage of these opportunities.

Why Consider a Trade Career?

Trade jobs are often overlooked in favor of traditional college degrees, but they offer several benefits that make them a good option:

• High Earning Potential: Many trade careers offer salaries that can compete with or exceed those of careers requiring a four-year degree.

• Job Security: Trades like electrical work, plumbing, and welding are always in demand, ensuring steady employment.

• Shorter Training Periods: Trade programs often take less time to complete compared to traditional college degrees, allowing you to enter the workforce faster.

• Low to No Student Debt: Trade schools and apprenticeships are generally more affordable than four-year universities, making it easier to avoid student loans.

Now, let's dive into some of the highest-paying trades for women and how they’re breaking the mold!

1. Electrician

Becoming an electrician is one of the highest-paying trades for women. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. The demand for skilled electricians continues to grow, and the median annual wage for electricians is over $60,000, with top earners making upwards of $90,000.

Becoming an electrician can be a rewarding and lucrative career choice for women interested in problem-solving, technical skills, and working with their hands. Breaking into this field typically involves completing an apprenticeship program combining on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

2. Plumber

Plumbing is another high-paying trade job for women that offers excellent income potential and job security. Plumbers install and repair piping systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The median salary for plumbers is around $56,000, but experienced plumbers can earn significantly more, especially in specialized fields like pipefitting or steam fitting.

Women who enjoy hands-on work and problem-solving can thrive in this field. Like electricians, plumbers usually enter the field through an apprenticeship program, gaining valuable skills while earning an income.

3. Welder

Welding is a trade that requires precision, skill, and attention to detail—qualities that many women possess. As a high-paying trade for females, welding offers a median salary of approximately $44,000, potentially earning over $60,000 in specialized fields such as underwater welding or working with high-risk materials.

Women who choose welding can benefit from a variety of career paths, including construction, manufacturing, and artistic metalworking. Certification programs, often completed in less than a year, provide the technical training needed to start a career in welding.

4. HVAC Technician

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technicians install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. The demand for HVAC technicians is on the rise due to the growing emphasis on energy efficiency and the need for climate control systems.

This trade offers women a chance to work in a stable and well-paying field. The average annual salary is around $50,000. Experienced HVAC technicians can earn over $70,000, especially those specializing in complex systems or working in high-demand regions.

5. Elevator Installer and Repairer

Elevator installers and repairers are among the highest-paid tradespeople, with a median salary exceeding $84,000. This specialized trade involves installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. It requires a high level of technical expertise and mechanical skills, making it one of the most challenging yet rewarding high-paying trades for women.

Women interested in this field typically start as apprentices and work their way up, gaining hands-on experience and specialized training along the way.

6. Construction Manager

While not traditionally seen as a trade, construction management is a field where women can break barriers and earn substantial incomes. Construction managers oversee building projects, coordinate teams, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

The average salary for a construction manager is around $97,000, with top earners making well over $130,000. Women with experience in construction trades or a degree in construction management or engineering can excel in this role, shattering stereotypes and leading successful teams.

7. Heavy Equipment Operator

Operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators is another high-paying trade for women. Heavy equipment operators earn an average salary of around $50,000, potentially earning significantly more with experience and specialized certifications.

Women in this field are proving that strength isn't the only requirement for the job—skill, precision, and attention to safety are equally important. Certification programs and on-the-job training provide the pathway to enter this field.

How to Get Started in a High-Paying Trade

If you're a woman interested in pursuing a high-paying trade career, here are some steps to help you get started:

Research and Choose a Trade: Consider what skills you enjoy and where your interests lie. Look into the specific training requirements, job prospects, and potential earnings for different trades.

Get the Necessary Training: Many trades require apprenticeships or certification programs that provide both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Look for accredited programs in your area that offer the necessary education and skills.

Seek Out Support and Mentorship: Organizations like the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) provide resources and leadership programs that can help women in trades. Additionally, many trade unions and associations offer mentorship programs designed to support women entering these fields.

Network and Connect: Attend trade shows, career fairs, and networking events. Connecting with professionals already in the field can provide valuable insights and open doors to job opportunities.

Stay Informed and Keep Learning: Trades are constantly evolving with new technologies and practices. Continuing education and certifications can help you stay competitive and advance in your career.

Breaking the Stereotypes: Women in Trades

Women entering these high-paying trades are breaking down stereotypes and paving the way for future generations. Traditionally dominated by men, these fields are now more welcoming to women thanks to changing perceptions, supportive employers, and increasing recognition of women’s abilities in technical and skilled trades.

With the right training, support, and determination, you can thrive in any of these fields and inspire the next generation of women to follow in your footsteps.