Women in the Skilled Trades Face New Hurdles - Up First Recap

Podcast: Up First

Published: 2026-02-01

Duration: 26 minutes

Guests: Andrea Hsu

Summary

The episode examines the challenges women face in entering the skilled trades amidst policy changes under the Trump administration that threaten diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

What Happened

Andrea Hsu reports on how President Trump's vision for the American workforce prioritizes skilled trades over college education, under the slogan 'Make America Skilled Again.' However, concerns arise that his administration's efforts to roll back DEI initiatives may hinder women's progress in the construction industry.

Hsu attended a tradeswomen conference in Chicago, where thousands of women from various trades gathered to connect and share ideas. The event underscored the enthusiasm and support for women entering high-paying jobs in trades traditionally dominated by men.

Despite progress, women make up less than 5% of the workforce in construction trades, with many being the only woman on their job sites. The conference provided a unique opportunity for them to experience the energy of being among thousands of fellow tradeswomen.

Hsu visited the Plumbers Union Training Center in Chicago to speak with female apprentices like Alyssa Redoisich and Kaylee Jensen. Jensen, a former video editor, transitioned into plumbing after realizing the long-term career stability it offered compared to her previous field.

The Chicago Women in Trades nonprofit, which helps women enter the construction industry, faces threats from the Trump administration's anti-DEI policies. These policies risk cutting funding and support for programs designed to increase women's participation in trades.

The episode highlights the concerns of veteran tradeswomen who fear losing the hard-won gains in workplace equality. They worry about the dismantling of DEI policies that have facilitated progress, such as maternity leave and harassment reporting processes.

The administration's stance on DEI is reflected in its preference for traditional, male-dominated images of construction workers, as seen in the Labor Department's social media. This nostalgic view may overlook the potential contributions of women in skilled trades.

Key Insights

• Women represent less than 5% of the workforce in construction trades, often being the only woman on their job sites, highlighting the gender disparity in these fields.
• The Chicago Women in Trades nonprofit, which supports women entering the construction industry, faces potential funding cuts due to the Trump administration's anti-DEI policies.
• The Plumbers Union Training Center in Chicago provides training for female apprentices like Kaylee Jensen, who transitioned from video editing to plumbing for greater career stability.
• The Trump administration's preference for traditional images of construction workers may overlook the contributions of women, as seen in the Labor Department's social media portrayals.