Women in the Trades: Gainesville's Growing Presence on the Job Site

Female enrollment in local apprenticeship programs has doubled in three years.

Three years ago, women made up less than 4% of apprenticeship enrollees in Alachua County's building trades programs. Today that number is approaching 9% — and local union leaders say the momentum is only building.

What Changed

A targeted outreach campaign launched in 2023 by the North Florida Building Trades Council brought apprenticeship information directly to high schools, community colleges, and workforce development centers across the region.

"I didn't know this was an option for me until someone came to my school and explained it. Now I'm two years into my electrical apprenticeship and I love it."

— Jasmine Torres, IBEW Apprentice, Year 2

The trades offer some of the best wages and benefits available without a four-year degree — and the work is in high demand. For women looking for a career that pays well and offers real job security, the trades are worth a serious look.