The rising costs of tuition at four-year colleges and the increasing student loan debt in America have led many young people to question the merits of obtaining a traditional bachelor’s degree. As a result, vocational school enrollment has seen a significant increase, with Gen Z being labeled as “the tool belt generation.” This shift is driven by the realization that working with one’s hands can lead to a lucrative career, a happier life, and a better family life in the long run.
While the majority of workers in trades are men, there is a growing number of young women who are choosing to pursue careers involving manual labor. In 2020, 11.6% of individuals who completed an apprenticeship program in the US were female, indicating a shift towards gender diversity in the trades industry. Four young women from New York are highlighted for their success in the trades, challenging stereotypes and defying expectations.
One of the women featured is Victoria Carl, a 25-year-old who owns her own car repair shop in Albany. Despite facing initial resistance and doubts regarding her choice to pursue automotive repair, Carl persisted and eventually took over a shop with the support of her parents. Now, she has a successful business with four full-time technicians and is expecting net sales to surpass $1 million this year.
Bri Loomis, another featured woman, is a 19-year-old who works with massive trucks as part of her job with New York State. She encountered similar resistance when choosing her career path but remained determined to pursue her passion. Loomis has worked on significant projects such as helping to build the Buffalo Bills stadium, finding fulfillment in her work while maintaining a healthy work-life balance for future aspirations.
Shauna Irving, at 33, is the youngest president of the women’s club in her electrician’s union and actively recruits young women to join the field. She overcame personal challenges and skepticism about her skills to become a successful electrician, earning a high hourly wage plus benefits. Irving emphasizes the importance of supportive male colleagues and the increasing presence of women in the industry.
Finally, Emiley Filuta, a 17-year-old from Troy, followed in her family’s footsteps by pursuing a career in mechanics. She enrolled in an Automotive Technologies program during high school, gaining valuable experience that led to an apprenticeship at Rensselaer Honda. Filuta plans to attend Hudson Valley Community College for an automotive program, recognizing the value of trade school for those interested in hands-on work. Her passion for fixing vehicles and her ability to troubleshoot effectively have solidified her belief in the importance of trades in society.
