Why Women in the Electrical Trade Matters—Now More Than Ever
Let’s be real: electricity runs our world, and the professionals who wire our businesses, homes, and infrastructure are absolutely essential. Here’s the catch—despite jaw-dropping demand and great career prospects, the electrical field is still largely dominated by men. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only about 2–8% of all electricians in the U.S. are women. That’s a big gap, especially considering the industry needs over one million new electricians in the next decade to meet electrification and sustainability goals!
The good news? More and more women are eyeing this rewarding, well-paying field—and companies like Electrical Team 6 are making diversity a priority. We’re on a mission to build a team where talent, passion, and dedication are what truly matter.
Breaking Down Barriers: What’s Holding Women Back?
If you ask a classroom of high schoolers if women can become electricians, a bunch of hands will shoot up for “yes.” But in reality, fewer women than ever step into the field. So, what gives? Here’s a quick look at what’s been holding women back from electrical careers:
- Stereotypes and Perceptions: Old-school stereotypes die hard—some people still see electrical work as “men’s work,” even though there’s zero reason for that.
- Lack of Visibility/Role Models: If you rarely see women on job sites or in company marketing, it doesn’t feel like an obvious career option to many women and girls.
- Culture and Hiring Practices: Sometimes, hiring managers subconsciously (or consciously!) stick with “what they know”—which historically means hiring more men.
- Workplace Environment: From bathrooms to break rooms, not every shop or job site has been set up with diversity and inclusion in mind. Some women report microaggressions or feeling left out when they do show up, too.
These barriers are real—but they’re not permanent. And the industry is ready for change!
What’s Changing: Women Stepping Into the Trades
Things are already looking up. In 2023, women made up the highest number ever of construction and extraction workers—more than 363,000! And in apprenticeship programs (the path to getting licensed), women now make up close to 5% of all active apprentices—a number that’s grown over 50% in the past five years.
More women are interested in electrical careers than ever before, and that means the future of the trade could look a whole lot brighter—and more balanced.
The Perks of Being an Electrician (for Anyone!)
Let’s not forget why the electrical trade is such a smart choice for women (and men, too):
- High Earning Potential: Median pay for U.S. electricians is around $60,000/year, with the opportunity for six-figure incomes for master electricians and business owners.
- Job Security: With a predicted need for another million electricians, you’ll have consistent work for years to come.
- Innovation: Electricians are on the frontlines of green tech (think solar panels, electric vehicle charging, smart homes).
- Skills for Life: Want to be totally self-sufficient and handy around the house? This is the trade for you!
Diversity Means Better Workplaces—and We’ve Seen It Firsthand
At Electrical Team 6, we truly believe that diverse teams are stronger teams. Here’s what we’ve noticed (and what the research backs up):
- Different Perspectives = Better Problem-Solving: Tackling complex wiring issues or big commercial jobs? A variety of backgrounds and ways of thinking means faster, smarter solutions.
- Stronger Teamwork: Mixed-gender groups often communicate more, ask better questions, and hold each other accountable.
- Customer Trust: Our customers come from all walks of life—when our team reflects that, we connect better and build lasting relationships.
Bottom line: Diversity isn’t just good PR. It’s good business—and it’s what drives us forward.
How Electrical Team 6 Is Making a Difference
We’re proud to say that Electrical Team 6 is actively opening doors for women in the electrical field. Here’s how we’re tackling the diversity challenge head-on:
1. Intentional Hiring Practices
We look beyond the resume. Commitment, curiosity, and a willingness to learn go farther here than simply checking boxes. We advertise widely, partner with local schools, and make sure our job postings speak to everyone—not just the “usual suspects.”
2. Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training
Getting started can be the hardest part. That’s why we provide support from day one, offering:
- Paid apprenticeships for both men and women
- Mentorship programs connecting new hires with experienced team members (including our female electricians and leaders)
- Hands-on learning in the field, side-by-side with our pros
If you’re interested, check out our open roles and apprenticeship info here.
3. Supportive Culture—No Exceptions
You belong here. That’s our motto—on the job site, in the office, and at company get-togethers. We make sure our gear, facilities, and policies work for everyone, and don’t tolerate harassment or “old boys’ club” behavior, period.
4. Showcasing Our Talent
Whenever we can, we shine a light on our talented women in the field. We encourage speaking up, sharing ideas, and taking the lead—whether it’s on large-scale solar installations or tackling everyday commercial wiring.
5. Invested in the Future
We know that lasting change starts with the next generation. Our team volunteers at career days in local high schools, and we support scholarships and training for women interested in the trades.
Advice for Women Considering the Electrical Trade
Thinking about joining us—or another electrical company? Here’s what we tell anyone (but especially women) who are curious:
- Don’t let stereotypes hold you back. If you’ve got the passion and drive, this field has tons of opportunity.
- Find a mentor. Reach out to apprenticeships or local electrical groups led by women for support and advice.
- Push for inclusive workplaces. Ask questions in your interviews about culture, mentorship, and advancement opportunities.
- Know your worth! Electricians are in huge demand, and the skills you’ll pick up are valuable for a lifetime.
Real Stories, Real Change
We’ve seen firsthand how powerful a mixed-gender crew can be—talented women bringing new ideas to the table, challenging assumptions, and inspiring the whole team to do even better work. When you see a woman leading a big-site wiring job or taking charge of a challenging EV charger install, you know the future of the electrical trade is looking a whole lot brighter.
Join Us—And Help Shape the Future
The shortage of electricians isn’t just a statistic—it’s a call for change, innovation, and inclusion. At Electrical Team 6, we’re all in. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a shift from another industry, there is a place for you here.
Ready to jumpstart your career, close the wage gap, and light up new possibilities? We’d love to hear from you. Learn more about our services, team, and open positions at Electrical Team 6.
References:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Industry research and workforce studies (2023–2024)
