INSTRUCTOR INSIGHT
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WOMEN IN TRADES A different perspective
BY BEN HART
When interviewing potential candidates for a job, hire the best person for the job: race, gender, religious beliefs should have no more bearing on the final selection than the individual’s preference of breakfast cereal.
T
he topic of women entering the world of trades is nothing new in 2020; the transition of women from “traditional roles” to tradespeople is now decades old. Unfortunately, most trades still see the percentage of women in the single digits. With International Women’s Day approaching at the time I write this on March 8th, I’d like to take a few moments to reflect on what this means to me as not only a male tradesperson, but as an educator. I have a weak spot for nostalgia and history, so I would like to start by noting that International Woman’s Day saw its origins at the turn of the 19th century largely due to the movements associated with women’s suffrage. March 8th became globally recognized as International (Working) Women’s Day in 1975 as decreed by the United Nations. Since then, many groups and organizations have formed to support women such as Women in Trades and Technologies (WITT) and Women Building Futures. So, where does this leave me, a humble male who wishes nothing but the best for women? What can I do differently? How should
I treat female colleagues, apprentices and students? Should I go the extra mile to offer additional support for the cause? I have learned that human beings are individualistic creatures. We all come from unique backgrounds which can be leveraged for our experiential skills and knowledge. The moment you depict a difference between someone else and yourself then proceed to change your attitude or behaviour based on this assessment, is described as discrimination. Often, discrimination can even be wrapped up beautifully in kind deeds and gestures such as helping a co-worker lift something heavy or unsolicited advice on how to complete a repair. So, STOP! I cannot and should not speak on behalf of women. What I can do is stand on the sidelines, offer support when needed and celebrate the accolades as equals. I can also ask for assistance and support while not needing to feel emasculated. Truly, the only one that can make a man feel emasculated is himself. When interviewing potential candidates for a job, hire the best person for the job: race, gender, religious
beliefs should have no more bearing on the final selection than the individual’s preference of breakfast cereal. When I do interact with fellow trades people, apprentices, or students, I will not provide additional support unless requested or deserved as an individual. I will not qualify success against an attribute: “you did well on that project, for a girl.” I will treat everyone as the unique and valued individuals they are. A final word to women: many of us (men) want you here, unfortunately, some of us are unsure how to proceed. Please do not let dated stereotypes stop you from pursuing your dreams and know that there is a lot of support. Communication is an important tool; let your employer and colleagues know what is and is not acceptable. Also know that the struggles are real and many of the struggles are shared. The trades can be difficult and trying at times-for everyone. Stick with it and prove anyone who has ever displayed an ounce of negativity, wrong. My dream is that one day there will be no need to discuss this topic as equality becomes prevalent.
Ben Hart is a Red Seal autobody technician and refinisher with nearly two decades of experience in the industry. For the past two years, he has instructed apprenticeship programs at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). He can be reached at ben.hart@sait.ca.
SPRING 2020 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 17
