Summary
In a recent opinion piece, Julie Hemingway highlights the positive trend of women entering union building trades in Massachusetts, even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. The article notes that the percentage of female apprentices in union programs has reached an all-time high, with Boston's building trades unions boasting twice the national average of women in apprenticeship roles.
Hemingway, a member of Pipefitters Local 537, shares her personal journey from dead-end jobs to a fulfilling career in the trades, emphasizing the benefits of union membership, including equal pay and job stability. This growing participation of women in the skilled trades underscores a shift towards more inclusive opportunities and highlights the potential for career advancement within registered apprenticeship programs.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story showcases the vital role that registered apprenticeship programs play in creating equitable career pathways for women in the trades. By promoting diversity and inclusion, these programs not only help to close the gender gap in skilled labor but also strengthen the overall workforce, benefiting employers and communities alike.
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