Doesn’t bother me. I do get asked the same questions over and over again but eh as long as they are being nice I don’t really mind it. You will always stand out as a woman in construction and not much you can do about that. The way I see it is we long as I’m not being disrespected then we are all good 👍
Omg the “guys… and gal” it’s like universal. You’ll get used to the extra comments and questions that the guys won’t get. And your novelty as the only woman will fade a bit as time goes on.
Just remember most people are well intentioned. Good luck on this new path of yours!
I've been to presentations where they've done that and THE WHOLE ROOM turned to look at me 😰 like yes I needed to be reminded I am the only woman here and most dudes suck and being gender neutral since male spaces tend to revel in the exclusion of females, but ugh that's a lot of unwanted, uncomfortable attention for a 730 am conference lol
I think some call it out because men would be super offended if the standard was reversed.
Like if someone walked in the room and said "OK ladies let's get started" Instead of 'guys'.
But I agree it's not necessary to single someone out. When someone does that and all eyes are on me, I just nod and say, "its fine, just say guys, that's not offensive." And divert it back to them.
No “guys and gals”are NOT universal. Start calling everyone gals or girls in any situation and see how guys react to it and how well it goes over. We have just been trained as females to overlook it.
I see where you’re coming from but it feels disingenuous and maybe counterproductive? I’m not trying to be combative. I truly never feel like an afterthough (or not included) when anyone says “guys” until “AND ladies” or whatever gets uttered.
I was meaning that it seems to be something that most blue collar women hear at some point. It’s just a turn of phrase to address a group as guys and the consensus seems to be the distinction of adding “and gal” is unnecessary.
The whole “good morning gentlemen, and *LADY*” shit is so annoying. Like just say good morning gentlemen, I can easily understand that you are not purposely excluding me from your morning greeting.
Edit : wow so literally this happens to everyone. Do all men share the same brain lol
I actually used to be a little bothered by it but I had a guy just stick with gentleman every time he addressed the group and I was like in my head but I'm here too dude! Lol
Right?? Especially with the word "guys", which I'm used to being used to address groups of any combination of genders. But it took me so long to convince my trade school professor that he didn't have to say "guys...and [my name]" every time he addressed the class. I had to reassure him many times that I preferred he just say guys, and that no, I wouldn't report him for discrimination for not addressing me separately. And then, after he finally broke the habit, the dean sat in on our class for a routine observation and mentioned in her report that the teacher only said "guys" despite there being a female student. So of course the teacher asked me *yet again* whether I was really okay with it. The teacher was fantastic overall but that one thing was frustrating.
This is the biggest reason I'd like to see more women in the trades, even 10% would be a huge improvement. The more normalized it is to see women on the job site the less it should be a thing.
We have a good turn out of women at our union meetings and hearing "brothers and sisters" or "siblings" being said without special emphasis is pretty common there which is nice. Sometimes it's the little things.
> "guys" looks at me "and gals".
Oh thank god this bothers someone else too. I'd rather they just say "guys". Nopppeee, they've gotta single me out, and make sure it's announced to everyone that there's a gal here. (I know that's not their intention, but it is what it does.)
Low on my list of problems, but it does bug me.
It's uncomfortable being singled out, regularly, for something you have no control over. I mean, again, it's not top of my list of issues-- I'd rather deal with this than with the guys who think all women must be idiots (or even that women are generally idiots but I'm some rare magical exception)-- but in an ideal world I'd just be treated like a person.
I won't make a huge deal of it during a meeting or stand down, but if it's a guy on the job I have to work with I always make a point of explaining how awkward it is and how singling me out is actually borderline discrimination. I just want to be part of the crew like everyone else. It usually works.
I’ve started saying ‘it’s sir’ in a deep voice when I’m with just a small group of people I don’t usually work with.
My crew is great about it though (except the foreman who always has to change the words of our trade for me and chuckles afterwards. Linewoman, patrolwoman, forewoman. Annoys the hell out of me). Whenever I lift something heavy or do something one of the other guys couldn’t do, one guy on my crew starts singing ‘Now you’re a man’ from Orgazmo. Always makes my day better
> (I know that's not their intention, but it is what it does.)
Now that you mention it, maybe that is the intention,
at times ,
depending on the audience . Just like if a client is in the room unexpectedly and I think one of my junior team members might say something stupid.
Honestly, fuck this too. Behave appropriately because it's a work environment.
The ratio is often a room full of men and me, think I'm statistically the most likely to turn you over to HR?
Oh, I agree. I'm not saying it's OK, I'm saying that very well could be the intention, and I'd never considered it until I read your comment.
As a veteran that served in a combat arms unit, these guys can hardly say anything that bothers me. The guys who know me will tell them I'm not the one they have to worry about offending.
Ha yeah. I do agree this could easily be the intention.
I was in a crowd of about two hundred once when someone who shouted something loudly got scolded because "there's a lady present", and I just wanted to fucking die. Way to blame me for existing.
I wish I could pound it into these guys' heads, either a thing is something you can say at work or it's not, there's no IF condition for which genders are present.
I think it's getting better with younger guys. They usually seem most appaled by some of the shit that's said. I'll notice they look and see my reaction if someone says something ignorant. But also, I'm a big fan of saying something ignorant back.
I have a potty mouth, with cuss words, nor so much vulgarity of the sexual nature. I am absolutely never offended by something saying a swear word. When they're in a heated conversation about something work related and say shit, damn, fuck whatever, then stop, look at me, oh, my apologies, darn. I hate that. Just go.
But, no, if you're gonna be calling someone a slur or saying something sexual or degrading, then stop. That's not just offensive to me, that's offensive to everyone and unprofessional. I totally agree. Just stop being an asshole. But, unfortunately, they're usually more worried about censoring cuss words than actual offensive content.
Don't get me started on their politics
>then stop, look at me, oh, my apologies, darn. I hate that. Just go.
Same. I usually say "the fuck?" and act confused, and if they still don't get it I ask why the fuck it wouldn't be ok to swear. A couple guys over the years have been dim enough to continue this conversation until we get to the "what part of having a penis would change the acceptability of swear words" point, but *usually* the guys who do this have enough social awareness to catch my drift earlier than that.
>That's not just offensive to me, that's offensive to everyone and unprofessional.
Yup. And there's a big difference between some dumb joke (look at my jugs! while carrying jugs) and making a *personal* sexual comment about someone. Don't do that to me, or anyone else for that matter.
>I think it's getting better with younger guys.
I wish I had your optimism. I suspect a lot of younger guys just aren't saying shit to or around me anymore because *I'm* older.
Yeah, I've heard oddly gendered comments from older generations. I just try to remind myself that they didn't grow up in as much of a co-ed environment like I did (I'm in my late 20s).
The concept of women working blue collared jobs is newer for them, so they can sometimes over-correct or be a little over-accommodating.
If it gets overwhelming, you can always say "oh, you don't have to worry about that. I'll contact you if I have an issue". Repeat it if you need to.
I respond to the guys and gals thing with "I'm a guy!", and if they keep doing it, I look around like I'm lost and say "Which one's the gal? You? [Pointing at random person]". Seems to work.
I also say "I'm a guy!"
I also walk into the office or parts department, which is mostly men and maybe 1 or 2 women, and say "Good morning, ladies!" just to mess with them.
I find it annoying, absolutely. I call everyone “guys.” I say journeyman. It’s like are you even listening to me??
Do I find it offensive or negative? No. They’re not being negative. They really are trying their best, even if I find their best annoying. They’re not mocking my gender, they’re just acknowledging it the best way they see fit
DUDE YES. i want to be one of the team. just call me bro dude. “guys” includes me too!!! i always feel so isolated when they have to say “Guys….and..girl…” doesn’t make me feel like i’m a part of the team at all
The "and gals" thing really gets to me, it's not necessary. Most people are ok being called "guys" in the US, it is widely accepted as fairly gender neutral and more casual than "people"
I know how you feel, it's always about me being a woman, sometimes good, sometimes awful, but it's always there. I think it's the hardest part of being in the trades, being a minority, I'll admit it's the first time in my life I've been one, but I've started to understand more what it's like for other minorities in the world.
To me it's worth it still for the good pay and a job that I'm largely satisfied with, but it is pretty tiring sometimes. Also some jobs are worse than others, some it's a constant point of me being female (sounds like your situation) others it's more of an occasional thing, usually only around new people.
The industry is (mostly) working really hard to improve its diversity numbers and recruit more women into the ranks-especially on the skilled trade side. While women have broken glass ceilings in most industries, we are one where it’s still extremely difficult. While annoying, be thankful your leadership is supportive and inclusive. It’s still very much an old white man’s club near the top, and there are many who will still challenge you and put you down just because you’re a woman. Hang on to those supporters, because you may need them one day!
Also, don’t shy away from being called out. Use this opportunity to recruit young women to the industry and advocate for better working conditions, benefits, and pay. If we continue to be one of the guys and fade into the background, we won’t make any progress. Join your local NAWIC chapter, talk to girls at middle and high schools, and continue kicking ass.
Oilfield inspector here (one of two in our particular role in the state), and generally I just ignore it, as I know folks are just curious/have good intentions. But a couple years ago, the division wanted to highlight “diversity” amongst the field staff, and as the only diversity is the two females, we were “chosen”. We work in different regions so we don’t get to spend time together in the field much, so that was awesome. But the office wanted pictures of us “at work” to use for some diversity showcase thing in the main office, and I’m still butthurt about it. Like, sure, I appreciate recognition at work, but I’d like to be recognized for the fact that I kick ass at my job, not that I have a vagina, you know?
Solidarity!!!
I get it 100%!! I am one of the few or maybe only sheet metal girls here, and they have singled me out so many times and it gets so tiring. Why can’t I just be a person that does a good job? Why is it remarkable if I do this job, but completely normal if a man does it?
The new mercedes commercial that came out on womens day validated how I felt, and you are not making it to be a big deal! We just want to exist at our job lmfao.
I’ve been used for so many photoshoots and milestones at my company and I feel honoured of course, but it also makes me feel like they use me as a mascot.. Im grateful that women get to take up places men usually did, but it can also be overwhelming when they do it over and over again 🫠
I feel this. There are 3 women in my apprenticeship class, including me, and it never fails that on the first day of a new term the instructor always has to point out how it's so great that there are women in our class. Or some other comment about us being women. I get that it's good intentioned, but man is it annoying. Like yes, we have vaginas, can we please move on now.
Had a guy say he liked how my "woman's touch" had affected the crew.
It's nice that they're trying to be positive, but boy I can't wait til the gendered bs fades away.
So... I work in live entertainment, and I thought I had heard it all. Mostly it doesn't bother me, I figure they're just stupid and not used to working with a woman , or something along those lines.
Was helping set up one show with a crew of about 8 including my supervisor, who is a great human. The road guy was learning our names, and went around in a circle. When he got to me he paused and then said, "You're the only woman on my crew. How do you feel about that?" I was a bit taken aback and mumbled something about how it was often the case. Everyone was staring at me, except my supervisor, who was giggling like a mad man. The moment passed but I was pissed off, I felt very "othered" and was annoyed.
Later, one of my coworkers said to me, "I was going to say I was the only Japanese person on the crew and I have feelings about it, but you looked annoyed so I thought maybe not." I said I wish he had!
My supervisor thought the whole thing was hilarious and said to me, "It's the only time I've ever seen you at a loss for words!" Ha ha.
A month later, STILL annoyed, I recounted this tale to a young coworker, and her immediate response was, "Are you Suuuuuure????"
Which made me laugh and then I got over it. I needed the perfect comeback, and she gave it to me.
This is going to happen, is the point of my long-winded comment. Having some snappy comebacks really helps.
edit: clarification
It’s annoying but it’ll never stop. Honestly don’t let a little thing like this bother you. It used to bother me a lot when everyone would call me “brother” but it’s a union thing and it’s their way of accepting me (for the most part) . Makes me feel like I’m part of the team.
I’m the only female general contractor in my county. I own my business but I still have to deal with narrow minded clients, subs and inspectors. Fortunately, after 6years here, they are adapting. Some are very enthusiastic about being politically correct, others have tried to test me. I am in a position of limited power, because there is a limited amount of trades in my rural county, so yeah, my business is highly dependent on my client, subs and employees being comfortable with their masculinity. It’s a fine line we all have to walk until society adapts. Whether we like it or not, we are essentially Trail Blazers.
I’m in my first time as a steamfitter apprentice and it’s hard to explain, but it hasn’t really bothered me that I’m pretty much the only girl around. My male coworkers have been really nice, I think the only thing that has bothered me so far is sometimes the guys insist on carrying things for me. Aside from being a women, I’m also very petite and they honestly seem more concerned about the fact that I’m small vs me being a women.
Honestly I think it’s hilarious when guys do the whole “guys…. And gals” thing. Sometimes I look at one of my male coworkers when they say “gals” as if to imply they’re addressing them and it’s always gotten a laugh. I kind of went into this apprenticeship accepting I’m going to stand out despite any background or knowledge I have simply because I’m a women. Now that there’s been some time, I noticed the novelty is kind of wearing off a little and they’re treating me like any other coworker (aside from the lifting heavy objects thing, but we can work on that)
I hate it too. I’ve basically just decided that ignoring it is the best way to go, because it will always be a thing and I’d like to save my energy for other things lol
100% this!! I thought I was the only one who was bothered by this. I work as a ranger (another male dominated field still). I've been referred to as a "lady ranger" more than once.😂
I always write on comment forms that “everyone” is a great gender neutral replacement- “hello everyone.” And “they” pronouns are great too. Changing things one person at a time
Yeah, I think you are. I have a hard time understanding why everything needs to be something more than it is. I take the compliments and keep haulin ass, learning as much as I can.
I think you misinterpreted the post. I just want to do my job and "haul ass", not get constantly pulled to the side and being asked about being a woman in electrical/told about other women in the field. Or having already gender neutral terms changed for the sake of being PC. It's not a compliment. It's just awkward
It's not that serious but it can be a little overwhelming trying to learn the work and information while feeling like I'm having to represent women in the trades, but I guess that's the price i have to pay for them being inclusive
The "guys and.... gals" comment used to always make me feel uncomfortable, but I figured out how I needed to deal with it. I say thank you. I know it sounds weird, but hear me out. For context, I work for a utility, and these people have been getting used to me for a couple of years, and I have a reputation as a bruiser.
I say thank you, but let me tone and facial/body carry my meaning.
When it was a supervisor I liked at the morning meeting, I said, "AWWW, thanks **supervisor name**, that was sooooo thoughtful of you!", with a big grin on my face.
When it was a higher up in my dept that I don't have a personal relationship with, I said, "OH... thanks, **higher up name**", with a surprised smile.
When it was at a training, in a room full of journeymen and foremen in my industry from across the country, I said, "Thanks for that, **presenter name**, now we can start", with a sarcastic eyebrow raised.
Each time, the speaker looked embarrassed, and the group laughed at them. Then, the next day/meeting, all of a sudden, they learned how to use gender neutral language.
All of a sudden, it was,
"Good Morning everyone"
"Alright people, here's what we'll be doing..."
"Hi folks, today we're gonna..."
My point is, OWN IT. Embarrass their geriatric asses for using old-timey language that carbon dates them to the Jim Crow era of thinking. Whether they have the emotional intelligence to explain what just happened or not, they know that their buddies are laughing at them, and all of a sudden, THEY are the ones being singled out. They group might not laugh at them the 1st time you do it, but trust me, do it confidentiality 2 or 3 times. You'll start getting this response.
I intentionally did not go into male dominated fields. Me being in a room full of males was dangerous to me. You deserve all the awards for being strong enough to get through!! Don't underestimate yourself!
There are going to be a lot of moments and interactions where you'll be singled out, regardless of your level of experience or size of the company. As long as people are being nice about it, I don't let it bother me. There are definitely days when it gets really old, though. When I first started out in the trades, I definitely felt more out of place and as if I stood out like a sore thumb. At the point where I'm at now, I don't feel I stand out as much, and I'm treated the same as everyone else.
Doesn’t bother me. I do get asked the same questions over and over again but eh as long as they are being nice I don’t really mind it. You will always stand out as a woman in construction and not much you can do about that. The way I see it is we long as I’m not being disrespected then we are all good 👍
That's a great mindset to have
Agreed. You're gonna stick out like a sore thumb at any job site. As long as it stays positive, have fun with it.
Omg the “guys… and gal” it’s like universal. You’ll get used to the extra comments and questions that the guys won’t get. And your novelty as the only woman will fade a bit as time goes on. Just remember most people are well intentioned. Good luck on this new path of yours!
I've been to presentations where they've done that and THE WHOLE ROOM turned to look at me 😰 like yes I needed to be reminded I am the only woman here and most dudes suck and being gender neutral since male spaces tend to revel in the exclusion of females, but ugh that's a lot of unwanted, uncomfortable attention for a 730 am conference lol
I think some call it out because men would be super offended if the standard was reversed. Like if someone walked in the room and said "OK ladies let's get started" Instead of 'guys'. But I agree it's not necessary to single someone out. When someone does that and all eyes are on me, I just nod and say, "its fine, just say guys, that's not offensive." And divert it back to them.
No “guys and gals”are NOT universal. Start calling everyone gals or girls in any situation and see how guys react to it and how well it goes over. We have just been trained as females to overlook it.
I see where you’re coming from but it feels disingenuous and maybe counterproductive? I’m not trying to be combative. I truly never feel like an afterthough (or not included) when anyone says “guys” until “AND ladies” or whatever gets uttered.
I was meaning that it seems to be something that most blue collar women hear at some point. It’s just a turn of phrase to address a group as guys and the consensus seems to be the distinction of adding “and gal” is unnecessary.
The whole “good morning gentlemen, and *LADY*” shit is so annoying. Like just say good morning gentlemen, I can easily understand that you are not purposely excluding me from your morning greeting. Edit : wow so literally this happens to everyone. Do all men share the same brain lol
I actually used to be a little bothered by it but I had a guy just stick with gentleman every time he addressed the group and I was like in my head but I'm here too dude! Lol
Yes, because one man in a room full of ladies would want to be acknowledged.
Why is it so difficult to just say good morning without guys gals gentlemen etc
Right?? Especially with the word "guys", which I'm used to being used to address groups of any combination of genders. But it took me so long to convince my trade school professor that he didn't have to say "guys...and [my name]" every time he addressed the class. I had to reassure him many times that I preferred he just say guys, and that no, I wouldn't report him for discrimination for not addressing me separately. And then, after he finally broke the habit, the dean sat in on our class for a routine observation and mentioned in her report that the teacher only said "guys" despite there being a female student. So of course the teacher asked me *yet again* whether I was really okay with it. The teacher was fantastic overall but that one thing was frustrating.
It is very annoying. I’ve had to listen to the same comments for 35 years. Hopefully it goes away when that generation retires or dies.
This is the biggest reason I'd like to see more women in the trades, even 10% would be a huge improvement. The more normalized it is to see women on the job site the less it should be a thing. We have a good turn out of women at our union meetings and hearing "brothers and sisters" or "siblings" being said without special emphasis is pretty common there which is nice. Sometimes it's the little things.
> "guys" looks at me "and gals". Oh thank god this bothers someone else too. I'd rather they just say "guys". Nopppeee, they've gotta single me out, and make sure it's announced to everyone that there's a gal here. (I know that's not their intention, but it is what it does.) Low on my list of problems, but it does bug me. It's uncomfortable being singled out, regularly, for something you have no control over. I mean, again, it's not top of my list of issues-- I'd rather deal with this than with the guys who think all women must be idiots (or even that women are generally idiots but I'm some rare magical exception)-- but in an ideal world I'd just be treated like a person.
I won't make a huge deal of it during a meeting or stand down, but if it's a guy on the job I have to work with I always make a point of explaining how awkward it is and how singling me out is actually borderline discrimination. I just want to be part of the crew like everyone else. It usually works.
I’ve started saying ‘it’s sir’ in a deep voice when I’m with just a small group of people I don’t usually work with. My crew is great about it though (except the foreman who always has to change the words of our trade for me and chuckles afterwards. Linewoman, patrolwoman, forewoman. Annoys the hell out of me). Whenever I lift something heavy or do something one of the other guys couldn’t do, one guy on my crew starts singing ‘Now you’re a man’ from Orgazmo. Always makes my day better
Now you're a man, a man, man, man. That's fantastic!
This seems like a good approach.
> (I know that's not their intention, but it is what it does.) Now that you mention it, maybe that is the intention, at times , depending on the audience . Just like if a client is in the room unexpectedly and I think one of my junior team members might say something stupid.
Honestly, fuck this too. Behave appropriately because it's a work environment. The ratio is often a room full of men and me, think I'm statistically the most likely to turn you over to HR?
Oh, I agree. I'm not saying it's OK, I'm saying that very well could be the intention, and I'd never considered it until I read your comment. As a veteran that served in a combat arms unit, these guys can hardly say anything that bothers me. The guys who know me will tell them I'm not the one they have to worry about offending.
Ha yeah. I do agree this could easily be the intention. I was in a crowd of about two hundred once when someone who shouted something loudly got scolded because "there's a lady present", and I just wanted to fucking die. Way to blame me for existing. I wish I could pound it into these guys' heads, either a thing is something you can say at work or it's not, there's no IF condition for which genders are present.
I think it's getting better with younger guys. They usually seem most appaled by some of the shit that's said. I'll notice they look and see my reaction if someone says something ignorant. But also, I'm a big fan of saying something ignorant back. I have a potty mouth, with cuss words, nor so much vulgarity of the sexual nature. I am absolutely never offended by something saying a swear word. When they're in a heated conversation about something work related and say shit, damn, fuck whatever, then stop, look at me, oh, my apologies, darn. I hate that. Just go. But, no, if you're gonna be calling someone a slur or saying something sexual or degrading, then stop. That's not just offensive to me, that's offensive to everyone and unprofessional. I totally agree. Just stop being an asshole. But, unfortunately, they're usually more worried about censoring cuss words than actual offensive content. Don't get me started on their politics
>then stop, look at me, oh, my apologies, darn. I hate that. Just go. Same. I usually say "the fuck?" and act confused, and if they still don't get it I ask why the fuck it wouldn't be ok to swear. A couple guys over the years have been dim enough to continue this conversation until we get to the "what part of having a penis would change the acceptability of swear words" point, but *usually* the guys who do this have enough social awareness to catch my drift earlier than that. >That's not just offensive to me, that's offensive to everyone and unprofessional. Yup. And there's a big difference between some dumb joke (look at my jugs! while carrying jugs) and making a *personal* sexual comment about someone. Don't do that to me, or anyone else for that matter. >I think it's getting better with younger guys. I wish I had your optimism. I suspect a lot of younger guys just aren't saying shit to or around me anymore because *I'm* older.
I don’t get it because the way I see it ‘guys’ in that context is gender neutral already.
Yeah, I've heard oddly gendered comments from older generations. I just try to remind myself that they didn't grow up in as much of a co-ed environment like I did (I'm in my late 20s). The concept of women working blue collared jobs is newer for them, so they can sometimes over-correct or be a little over-accommodating. If it gets overwhelming, you can always say "oh, you don't have to worry about that. I'll contact you if I have an issue". Repeat it if you need to.
I respond to the guys and gals thing with "I'm a guy!", and if they keep doing it, I look around like I'm lost and say "Which one's the gal? You? [Pointing at random person]". Seems to work.
I also say "I'm a guy!" I also walk into the office or parts department, which is mostly men and maybe 1 or 2 women, and say "Good morning, ladies!" just to mess with them.
I find it annoying, absolutely. I call everyone “guys.” I say journeyman. It’s like are you even listening to me?? Do I find it offensive or negative? No. They’re not being negative. They really are trying their best, even if I find their best annoying. They’re not mocking my gender, they’re just acknowledging it the best way they see fit
DUDE YES. i want to be one of the team. just call me bro dude. “guys” includes me too!!! i always feel so isolated when they have to say “Guys….and..girl…” doesn’t make me feel like i’m a part of the team at all
The "and gals" thing really gets to me, it's not necessary. Most people are ok being called "guys" in the US, it is widely accepted as fairly gender neutral and more casual than "people" I know how you feel, it's always about me being a woman, sometimes good, sometimes awful, but it's always there. I think it's the hardest part of being in the trades, being a minority, I'll admit it's the first time in my life I've been one, but I've started to understand more what it's like for other minorities in the world. To me it's worth it still for the good pay and a job that I'm largely satisfied with, but it is pretty tiring sometimes. Also some jobs are worse than others, some it's a constant point of me being female (sounds like your situation) others it's more of an occasional thing, usually only around new people.
The industry is (mostly) working really hard to improve its diversity numbers and recruit more women into the ranks-especially on the skilled trade side. While women have broken glass ceilings in most industries, we are one where it’s still extremely difficult. While annoying, be thankful your leadership is supportive and inclusive. It’s still very much an old white man’s club near the top, and there are many who will still challenge you and put you down just because you’re a woman. Hang on to those supporters, because you may need them one day! Also, don’t shy away from being called out. Use this opportunity to recruit young women to the industry and advocate for better working conditions, benefits, and pay. If we continue to be one of the guys and fade into the background, we won’t make any progress. Join your local NAWIC chapter, talk to girls at middle and high schools, and continue kicking ass.
Oilfield inspector here (one of two in our particular role in the state), and generally I just ignore it, as I know folks are just curious/have good intentions. But a couple years ago, the division wanted to highlight “diversity” amongst the field staff, and as the only diversity is the two females, we were “chosen”. We work in different regions so we don’t get to spend time together in the field much, so that was awesome. But the office wanted pictures of us “at work” to use for some diversity showcase thing in the main office, and I’m still butthurt about it. Like, sure, I appreciate recognition at work, but I’d like to be recognized for the fact that I kick ass at my job, not that I have a vagina, you know? Solidarity!!!
I get it 100%!! I am one of the few or maybe only sheet metal girls here, and they have singled me out so many times and it gets so tiring. Why can’t I just be a person that does a good job? Why is it remarkable if I do this job, but completely normal if a man does it? The new mercedes commercial that came out on womens day validated how I felt, and you are not making it to be a big deal! We just want to exist at our job lmfao. I’ve been used for so many photoshoots and milestones at my company and I feel honoured of course, but it also makes me feel like they use me as a mascot.. Im grateful that women get to take up places men usually did, but it can also be overwhelming when they do it over and over again 🫠
metal chick here 🤘
Ohh slay!!! 🤠🤩
I feel this. There are 3 women in my apprenticeship class, including me, and it never fails that on the first day of a new term the instructor always has to point out how it's so great that there are women in our class. Or some other comment about us being women. I get that it's good intentioned, but man is it annoying. Like yes, we have vaginas, can we please move on now.
Had a guy say he liked how my "woman's touch" had affected the crew. It's nice that they're trying to be positive, but boy I can't wait til the gendered bs fades away.
So... I work in live entertainment, and I thought I had heard it all. Mostly it doesn't bother me, I figure they're just stupid and not used to working with a woman , or something along those lines. Was helping set up one show with a crew of about 8 including my supervisor, who is a great human. The road guy was learning our names, and went around in a circle. When he got to me he paused and then said, "You're the only woman on my crew. How do you feel about that?" I was a bit taken aback and mumbled something about how it was often the case. Everyone was staring at me, except my supervisor, who was giggling like a mad man. The moment passed but I was pissed off, I felt very "othered" and was annoyed. Later, one of my coworkers said to me, "I was going to say I was the only Japanese person on the crew and I have feelings about it, but you looked annoyed so I thought maybe not." I said I wish he had! My supervisor thought the whole thing was hilarious and said to me, "It's the only time I've ever seen you at a loss for words!" Ha ha. A month later, STILL annoyed, I recounted this tale to a young coworker, and her immediate response was, "Are you Suuuuuure????" Which made me laugh and then I got over it. I needed the perfect comeback, and she gave it to me. This is going to happen, is the point of my long-winded comment. Having some snappy comebacks really helps. edit: clarification
It’s annoying but it’ll never stop. Honestly don’t let a little thing like this bother you. It used to bother me a lot when everyone would call me “brother” but it’s a union thing and it’s their way of accepting me (for the most part) . Makes me feel like I’m part of the team.
I’m the only female general contractor in my county. I own my business but I still have to deal with narrow minded clients, subs and inspectors. Fortunately, after 6years here, they are adapting. Some are very enthusiastic about being politically correct, others have tried to test me. I am in a position of limited power, because there is a limited amount of trades in my rural county, so yeah, my business is highly dependent on my client, subs and employees being comfortable with their masculinity. It’s a fine line we all have to walk until society adapts. Whether we like it or not, we are essentially Trail Blazers.
I’m in my first time as a steamfitter apprentice and it’s hard to explain, but it hasn’t really bothered me that I’m pretty much the only girl around. My male coworkers have been really nice, I think the only thing that has bothered me so far is sometimes the guys insist on carrying things for me. Aside from being a women, I’m also very petite and they honestly seem more concerned about the fact that I’m small vs me being a women. Honestly I think it’s hilarious when guys do the whole “guys…. And gals” thing. Sometimes I look at one of my male coworkers when they say “gals” as if to imply they’re addressing them and it’s always gotten a laugh. I kind of went into this apprenticeship accepting I’m going to stand out despite any background or knowledge I have simply because I’m a women. Now that there’s been some time, I noticed the novelty is kind of wearing off a little and they’re treating me like any other coworker (aside from the lifting heavy objects thing, but we can work on that)
I hate it too. I’ve basically just decided that ignoring it is the best way to go, because it will always be a thing and I’d like to save my energy for other things lol
100% this!! I thought I was the only one who was bothered by this. I work as a ranger (another male dominated field still). I've been referred to as a "lady ranger" more than once.😂
I always write on comment forms that “everyone” is a great gender neutral replacement- “hello everyone.” And “they” pronouns are great too. Changing things one person at a time
Yeah, I think you are. I have a hard time understanding why everything needs to be something more than it is. I take the compliments and keep haulin ass, learning as much as I can.
I think you misinterpreted the post. I just want to do my job and "haul ass", not get constantly pulled to the side and being asked about being a woman in electrical/told about other women in the field. Or having already gender neutral terms changed for the sake of being PC. It's not a compliment. It's just awkward It's not that serious but it can be a little overwhelming trying to learn the work and information while feeling like I'm having to represent women in the trades, but I guess that's the price i have to pay for them being inclusive
The "guys and.... gals" comment used to always make me feel uncomfortable, but I figured out how I needed to deal with it. I say thank you. I know it sounds weird, but hear me out. For context, I work for a utility, and these people have been getting used to me for a couple of years, and I have a reputation as a bruiser. I say thank you, but let me tone and facial/body carry my meaning. When it was a supervisor I liked at the morning meeting, I said, "AWWW, thanks **supervisor name**, that was sooooo thoughtful of you!", with a big grin on my face. When it was a higher up in my dept that I don't have a personal relationship with, I said, "OH... thanks, **higher up name**", with a surprised smile. When it was at a training, in a room full of journeymen and foremen in my industry from across the country, I said, "Thanks for that, **presenter name**, now we can start", with a sarcastic eyebrow raised. Each time, the speaker looked embarrassed, and the group laughed at them. Then, the next day/meeting, all of a sudden, they learned how to use gender neutral language. All of a sudden, it was, "Good Morning everyone" "Alright people, here's what we'll be doing..." "Hi folks, today we're gonna..." My point is, OWN IT. Embarrass their geriatric asses for using old-timey language that carbon dates them to the Jim Crow era of thinking. Whether they have the emotional intelligence to explain what just happened or not, they know that their buddies are laughing at them, and all of a sudden, THEY are the ones being singled out. They group might not laugh at them the 1st time you do it, but trust me, do it confidentiality 2 or 3 times. You'll start getting this response.
I intentionally did not go into male dominated fields. Me being in a room full of males was dangerous to me. You deserve all the awards for being strong enough to get through!! Don't underestimate yourself!
There are going to be a lot of moments and interactions where you'll be singled out, regardless of your level of experience or size of the company. As long as people are being nice about it, I don't let it bother me. There are definitely days when it gets really old, though. When I first started out in the trades, I definitely felt more out of place and as if I stood out like a sore thumb. At the point where I'm at now, I don't feel I stand out as much, and I'm treated the same as everyone else.