How to Choose the Right Trade for You as a Woman
The trades offer a wealth of opportunity—financially, creatively, and professionally. But with so many paths available, choosing the right trade can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out. Whether you're making a career switch, exploring life after high school, or re-entering the workforce, the key is to find a trade that fits your lifestyle, interests, strengths, and goals.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to choose a trade that’s right for you—as a woman, as a worker, and as a whole person. We’ll also point you toward further resources to help you move from thinking to doing.
Step 1: Know Your Why
Before you dive into specific job options, take a moment to think about why you’re drawn to the trades. Are you looking for:
Better income?
More hands-on, active work?
Creative expression?
Flexibility or self-employment?
A way to build tangible skills without a traditional college path?
Your “why” will help you narrow down the trades that align with your goals. For example, if independence and flexibility are your top priorities, trades like electrical, plumbing, or painting (with a path toward self-employment) might appeal to you.
Step 2: Consider Your Strengths and Interests
What are you naturally good at? What kind of work energizes you? Think about both your skills and your preferences. Some trade careers are highly technical, while others require more physical strength, precision, or creativity.
Here’s how your strengths might align:
Strength/InterestMatching TradesProblem-solving & precisionElectrician, HVAC tech, mechanicCreativity & aestheticsPainting, carpentry, interior finishingPhysical movement & buildingWelding, construction, framingInterpersonal skillsHome inspection, customer-focused repair workDetail-oriented & methodicalPlumbing, electrical, appliance repair
You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to be interested and willing to learn.
Step 3: Think About the Lifestyle You Want
Your trade career will shape your daily routine. Ask yourself:
Do you prefer working indoors or outdoors?
Are you open to traveling for work?
Would you prefer to work for a company or eventually run your own business?
Are you open to shift work, or do you need a steady 9-to-5?
Do you want physically demanding work or something lighter?
The lifestyle fit matters just as much as the job itself. For example, someone who values stability and routine might do well as a plumber or HVAC technician, while someone who thrives on variety and creativity might prefer residential painting or custom woodworking.
Step 4: Research Local Opportunities and Programs
Once you have a few trades in mind, look into training programs, apprenticeships, and licensing requirements in your area. Some trades require more upfront training than others, but many offer paid apprenticeships or tuition reimbursement.
You’ll also want to look at:
Job demand in your region
Starting salaries and wage growth
Union vs. non-union work environments
Availability of women-focused support groups or mentorship
Choosing a trade is easier when you know what's actually accessible and in demand near you.
Step 5: Talk to Other Women in the Trades
One of the most helpful things you can do is talk to women who are already doing the work. Reach out to local trade organizations, women-in-trade networks, or even message people on social media to ask what they love—and what they’d do differently.
Ask:
What made them choose their trade?
What was their training like?
What does a typical day look like?
What advice would they give someone just starting out?
Their real-world insights can help you make a more informed—and more confident—decision.
Step 6: Try It Before You Commit
If you’re still unsure, try sampling the work. Look for:
Introductory trade workshops or weekend classes
Volunteer programs (like Habitat for Humanity)
Ride-alongs or job shadowing opportunities
Pre-apprenticeship or exploratory programs for women
Even spending one day on-site can give you a clear sense of whether the job matches your expectations.
Conclusion: Trust Yourself—and Take the First Step
Choosing the right trade doesn’t have to be perfect from the start. Many women pivot within the trades, combining skills over time or moving from employee to business owner. The most important thing is to start somewhere—and to choose a path that aligns with your values, lifestyle, and interests.
To learn more about how the trades empower women—and explore specific trade career options—visit our complete Trades for Women. It’s filled with helpful insights, links to related guides, and real stories from women who have built thriving careers in the skilled trades.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're just exploring the trades or already dreaming of your own painting business, we’re here to help you build it. Click the button below to join our network where you can get access to tools, resources, and opportunities made for women in the industry. Your next move starts there.