Women Welders

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Hello everyone,I have been welding for about two months, I decided to take the class at my school just to learn something new. I wasn't sure if I would like it or not, but I decided I would give it a shot. The second I struck my first arc I fell in love, I weld almost every day for hours. I am almost positive this is what I want to do for my career. I love to work with my hands and create things. Being able to manipulate metal and make almost anything I want is amazing to me. The only thing I am worried about is that I am a female and there are a lot of men that don't like the idea of a woman going into a trade. If there are any women welders on here I would like to know if you have faced any sexism, or if it is harder for you to do than it would be for a man... Just anything I should think about before going into college for it.
Reply:I think youll be fine... I started welding last fall in school, and i love it. Half the day spent learning to weld makes high school pretty bareable... And were a class of 14 guys, but the seniors have two girls in their class, and theyre both pretty cool and seem to like it... But good luck :-)[Account Abandoned 8/8/16 Please Do Not Attempt Contact Or Expect A Reply]. See you on YouTube! -ChuckE2009
Reply:My friend Jere Donnelly runs the welding department at Bellingham Technical College- and there are two female welding instructors out of 4 there.Jere spent 30 years in the welding industry, and can keep up with any guy.there are always women in her classes, as well.BTC is a great school, plus they have the world famous Welding Rodeo-I think it depends a lot on where in North America you are- out here on the west coast, women in the trades has been common for 30 years or so- My old friend Betsey Shedd broke into the Pilebucks Union as their first woman union member in the early 80's. There are women welders at the refineries and boatyards around here, and women Ironworkers as well.I am sure there is some sexism, but a lot more women are stepping up and doing the job anyway.
Reply:You'll run into that your whole life, just out smart them! Don’t pay any attention to meI’m just a hobbyist!CarlDynasty 300V350-Pro w/pulseSG Spool gun1937 IdealArc-300PowerArc 200ST3 SA-200sVantage 400
Reply:The course coordinator and chief instructor of the welding courses at our local Community College is a  fully certified woman with years of experience in welding shops and on the pipelines. She is awesome.
Reply:I've welding with a 3 women. 2 of them were pretty good. One was horrible. Sooo...since half of the men I've welded with were horrible I think odds are you will be fine welding wise. Sexism? To be honest you are going to have to have thick skin regardless of your sex. It's just the way it is. Typical shop talk:Coworker: whine whine whine whine all morning. Me: You need a hug?Coworker: hell no you might rub up on me.Me: You know you like it ya bitchCoworker: You're the bitch bitch!Me: Oh you dont want any of this? *starts pole dancing on a bottle of c25*That's a pretty tame one too :P Every place I've worked has been like that to a certain degree. Most people will curb it with a woman around. But a select few will actually get worse. So if you can handle **** like that you should be ok.
Reply:Sadly only 6% of welders are women. That said, that doesn't mean its necessarily a bad thing, but I agree with i4sillypwr...  you will need a thick skin. But that's true where ever you go.  A while back I put together an article first for Miller, "Weld Like A Girl" but they only opted to post part of it:http://www.millerwelds.com/results/b...id=view&key=82The whole post is here:http://www.carmenelectrode.com/about...ding-industry/Highlights:-Learn as much as you can-Be as professional as possible-Develop a tough skin-Quality Counts-Know the Tools of the TradeGood luck! and have fun!-----------------------Carmen Electrodewww.CarmenElectrode.comand the boss blogs at  www.JoeWelder.comall powered by  www.Arc-Zone.com
Reply:If you can do you're job reasonably well, and not make any- or everyone around you miserable in the process, you'll be fine. I wouldn't even worry about it, just master your craft.But like others have said, the boys can be pretty gross at times. If that's cool with you or you can ignore it, great. Otherwise...Yeah, be prepared to be disgusted by how many 40 year old men pick their nose and worse...
Reply:They say women are better welders.  Really tho if you really love what your doing thats all that matters.Ya gotta spend money to make money!
Reply:Originally Posted by i4sillypwrI've welding with a 3 women. 2 of them were pretty good. One was horrible. Sooo...since half of the men I've welded with were horrible I think odds are you will be fine welding wise. Sexism? To be honest you are going to have to have thick skin regardless of your sex. It's just the way it is. Typical shop talk:Coworker: whine whine whine whine all morning. Me: You need a hug?Coworker: hell no you might rub up on me.Me: You know you like it ya bitchCoworker: You're the bitch bitch!Me: Oh you dont want any of this? *starts pole dancing on a bottle of c25*That's a pretty tame one too :P Every place I've worked has been like that to a certain degree. Most people will curb it with a woman around. But a select few will actually get worse. So if you can handle **** like that you should be ok.
Reply:I would say your going to need very thick skin. Most of the guys I work with are dogs.
Reply:Skin, make it thick, fast....We have two girls in a basic welding class at my local JC, both my age both very good so far at welding. all the guys are very polite to them both but once they hit a shop it'll be different I think for them depending on where they go."...My pappy was a pistol I'm a son of a gun...""...God is great, beer is good, and people are crazy..."
Reply:I am currently in my first year of college for welding and there are two girls in my class. And I would say they are both near the top of the class in the practical, and theory part of the class.  And they get alot of respect from all of us because of that.  As a guy I would say you will probably get teased a little, but most of it will be just friendly jokes. And when it is not friendly jokes its probably cause they feel just feel threatened, don't worry about it.  Id say go for it, both the girls in my class are glad they are giving it a shot.  Good luck!
Reply:Originally Posted by welderShaneThey say women are better welders..
Reply:1 to 2 men are usually gentlemen, 3 to 4 + are a pack of wolves who prey on the weak! Don’t pay any attention to meI’m just a hobbyist!CarlDynasty 300V350-Pro w/pulseSG Spool gun1937 IdealArc-300PowerArc 200ST3 SA-200sVantage 400
Reply:Thanks everyone for your input, at least I'll know what to expect. Just another question, does anybody think that it would be hard for me to find a job? That somebody might not hire me because I am a woman?
Reply:Ask them for a chance to see a GOOD weld done right and see what they say!
Reply:Learn how to flirt, you will do fine.
Reply:Wondered how long it would be before some  came out with a smart-a** remark.... Originally Posted by socoj2Learn how to flirt, you will do fine.
Reply:Originally Posted by savannursThat somebody might not hire me because I am a woman?
Reply:I don't think you'll find it as bad as it was when I was younger (I'm 57).   I think most industries have become much more accepting compared to what they once were.  Females couldn't even get into Mechanics or Welding classes when I was in High School, let alone work at it.  Thank Gawd times are changing.Funny thing is that women held the majority of trades jobs during the Second World War.... Originally Posted by savannursThanks everyone for your input, at least I'll know what to expect. Just another question, does anybody think that it would be hard for me to find a job? That somebody might not hire me because I am a woman?
Reply:Originally Posted by dellwasWondered how long it would be before some  came out with a smart-a** remark....
Reply:My instructors always said women could be great welders because they tend to be more patient than guys. If a shop wouldn't hire you because your a girl, you really don't want to work there any how, right? I think the women that survive in a mostly male work environment have the skills to prove themselves, the patience to ignore the true idiots, and the quick wit to throw it right back at the boys. Playing the "flirty,can you help me, I'm just a little girl" roll, will discredit yourself and others. There's nothing in welding that requires 250 lbs of manly man. Well, maybe the company picnic tombstone throwing challenge.......And don't forget there is more to the welding profession then burning rod.200amp Air Liquide MIG, Hypertherm Plasma, Harris torches, Optrel helmet, Makita angle grinders, Pre-China Delta chop saw and belt sander, Miller leathers, shop made jigs etc, North- welders backpack.
Reply:Originally Posted by savannursThanks everyone for your input, at least I'll know what to expect. Just another question, does anybody think that it would be hard for me to find a job? That somebody might not hire me because I am a woman?
Reply:Around here there is a girl welder but she is like the dudes. We talk mad **** to eachother and don't take anything as sexist.*shrug* yes it wasSo, are you now saying her only available assets are her looks? Originally Posted by socoj2*shrug* wasnt really a smart *** comment.She is going into an industry dominated by Males.You know use the assets you have available to the best of your advantage...Hell I am a grade AAA class flirt, and im a man it makes it that much harder i still use it to my advantage. Hell my wife uses it to her advantage.*Honey there is a lady at the Ticket counter now, go flirt us into an upgrade*
Reply:The best advice that I could give after being a welder for 6yrs is this:1.  Always be willing to learn!  A lot of times you will find that the men working with you let their egos get in the way and they refuse to learn when they already know everything.  If you take the attitude that you will do whatever the job requires - even if it is 8hrs of grinding or other dreary crap, and you will learn to do it as good or better than your co-workers, then you are more valuable to your employer. 2. Find the cranky old guy that has been welding forever and learn all you can from him.  He may not be right about everything, but he will know a ton of tips and tricks.3. As a woman, you need to work twice as hard to be considered half as good.  It isn't fair, but you will benefit in the long term.4.  Work smarter, not harder.  We can't lift everything ourselves, but if we flutter our eyelashes at the guy in charge of ordering things, we might get a chain or strap to use with the hoist.
Reply:Originally Posted by dellwas*shrug* yes it wasSo, are you now saying her only available assets are her looks?
Reply:Originally Posted by sn0border88Your a fool, his advice is to use every tool she can to her advantage.  Which is the same thing I would advise anyone who wants to succeed in life.
Reply:I can only speak from my own personal experience...I have worked around female welders before, and I don't really see the big deal.To ME, they were Welders FIRST, and Females SECOND.I evaluated them by the work they did, the SAME as I did any MAN I have worked with.Anyone wearing a Denim Shirt, Carhartts, Safety Glasses, and Work Boots looks about the same to ME anyway. I'm NOT gonna make a Big Fuss over you being a Girl, if YOU don't make a fuss over you being a Girl.Save your make up, and screaming tight clothing for your after work activities - It will do you NO good around me -All  I wanna see is you in welding gear, Head Down, Azz Up and Getting the Job Done.The only "Attributes" I would like to see you use, is your Brain, your Eyes, and your Ears - Make sound decisions, Ask thoughtful questions, and LISTEN to the responses.  As with any good Apprentice, I should only have to tell you, or SHOW you ONCE.Developing a Thick Skin will help you out - That's just how it is, Male OR Female.You can laugh and joke with the boys WITHOUT sounding like a Flirt, OR a Sleaze if you try.As for lifting "Heavy Objects" - Everyone at the shop is substantially smaller than me (I'm a fair bit LARGER than average) So I'm used to people asking me for a hand to lift or move something - If you were to need a hand, just ask - Plain and Simple - Don't play up the fact that you are a Female 'cause (on the job) I really don't care.Your mileage may vary, but that is the view from MY Welding Helmet.Last edited by Black Wolf; 10-28-2010 at 12:12 AM.Later,Jason
Reply:Thanks everyone. It seems like for the most part people don't really care if you are male or female. I was just worried because my mothers best friend in high school went to school to be a welder and it was really hard for her, but that was also 20 years ago. Right now I am in a shop full of guys every day for 3 hours, welding, working on cars and stuff like that. I know how to take a joke with them and I am basically one of the guys. But we have also grown up together, I've known these guys since I was 5, so that's probably why. But after reading all of this I think it will be the same wherever I go, unless they are real idiots.. even then I'm not overly concerned.I dont let myself look or seem weak around the shop, no matter what anyone asks me to do I try my hardest to do it and even that gets me a lot of respect in the classes. When I do have to ask for help they don't hesitate to assist me. Hopefully it will be like this after high school as well haha, but I feel a lot better about it after reading all of this.
Reply:savannurs if I had to pick one group of people who are the hardest on women in the work place, would be rod busters, (Iron Workers) they are the most ruthless people on the face of the earth! But I know a girl, (very small) who has been tying rod for 25-years, and she loves it. She learned real quick how to put the guys in their place.Don’t pay any attention to meI’m just a hobbyist!CarlDynasty 300V350-Pro w/pulseSG Spool gun1937 IdealArc-300PowerArc 200ST3 SA-200sVantage 400
Reply:I prefer being a fool as opposed to an a**hole, what's your excuse? Originally Posted by sn0border88Your a fool, his advice is to use every tool she can to her advantage.  Which is the same thing I would advise anyone who wants to succeed in life.
Reply:Great minds think alike and a**holes seldom differ... Originally Posted by socoj2Had to quote this for its awesomeness.
Reply:First off stick to what you love no matter what they think. Secondly most welders who arent living in the past welcome all welders who are capable of doing the job.
Reply:See the problem with women folk in the work place?Already done got the dudes fightin' just by showin upEd Conleyhttp://www.screamingbroccoli.com/MM252MM211 (Sold)Passport Plus & Spool gunLincoln SP135 Plus- (Gone to a good home)Klutch 120v Plasma cutterSO 2020 benderBeer in the fridge
Reply:i've worked with a few female welders.   some were amazing at the job..   some where there for a pay check, and did the least they could.....   just like the guys on the jobs...i'm across the water from ya in NS,  in this area, there's crap for work,  i have a friend, that's a female welder, she worked for her 1st year out of school, then she's been on UI ever since.   she's moving away to find work now.   NB may have more work then here,  i really don't know.i will say,  alot of the women i've worked with, in welding, and other trades,  have a "touch" that no man can match.   they have more finess to their work,  and it really shines in fine detail work, or in the finished product..if you love it, do it,  but be prepaired to bust your hump to get where ya wanna be.Bill BerryKeith Berry & Son Ltd.machine work, and weldingBear River Vollunteer FD
Reply:Originally Posted by dellwas*shrug* yes it wasSo, are you now saying her only available assets are her looks?
Reply:I much prefer female welders as a rule (for co workers and employees) As a group you work harder, you are more dedicated to quality, your skills are more consistent. I get straighter answers from women. Less Bull. Women take more time off but work more when working. I have two female Irornworkers working for me now. Good Luck and take no bull from the sexist A$$ holes you'll meet. If you go union you will not have the glass celling to deal with.
Reply:Good one!  Originally Posted by Broccoli1See the problem with women folk in the work place?Already done got the dudes fightin' just by showin up
Reply:*sigh*  It's already been determined that I'm a fool, not an idiot.  Please try and keep up, even though I know that's asking a lot... Originally Posted by i4sillypwrSure wouldnt want to work with you. Regardless of the work or your gender. Why? because you are an idiot. the end.
Reply:Wow... hahahha.
Reply:We have 4 women out of the hundred fitter/welders at my work. Things are fine for them, but they do put up with things that most women won't. I'm talking about burps, farts, and other general crudeness. In general you'll get what you give, and people will quickly learn what's acceptable in terms of conduct around you. None of them date at work. Keeping your dating life separate from work goes a long way towards men seeing you as a co-worker and nothing more/less. It can be a great career when you find a situation that fits you!
Reply:Originally Posted by welderShaneThey say women are better welders.  Really tho if you really love what your doing thats all that matters.
Reply:"Thick Skin"  " Smart Remark' I'm glad we finally have women that can fix their own Crack.Good luck , all the best, remember no one get's a break, not ever!  and as JR says it "step up or step off son" now we will amend that to Mam as well.Kidding aside, I have worked with some great women welders and on a furter note check out Kaye Sellon of Bills Welder repair, She and her father own and operate a welder repair business in Oklahoma, Check out the posts here and at the AWS if you think women can not be respected by men in this field. Her knowledge has helped quite a few of us.Last edited by kolot; 12-01-2010 at 05:40 PM."Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum"Lincoln Idealarc 250 AC/DCMillermatic 251   Syncrowave 300   30A spoolgunLincoln MP210Hypertherm 45(2) LN 25(2) Lincoln Weldanpower 225 CV(4) SA200   1 short hood    SA250    SAM 400
Reply:Originally Posted by savannursHello everyone,I have been welding for about two months, I decided to take the class at my school just to learn something new. I wasn't sure if I would like it or not, but I decided I would give it a shot. The second I struck my first arc I fell in love, I weld almost every day for hours. I am almost positive this is what I want to do for my career. I love to work with my hands and create things. Being able to manipulate metal and make almost anything I want is amazing to me. The only thing I am worried about is that I am a female and there are a lot of men that don't like the idea of a woman going into a trade. If there are any women welders on here I would like to know if you have faced any sexism, or if it is harder for you to do than it would be for a man... Just anything I should think about before going into college for it.
Reply:One of the best welders I've ever seen was Female. No mouth, no stupid jokes, no alcohol problems,  no cocky bs,  nor smart *** remarks for shoddy work excuse, just timely work, good housekeeping practices(that means keeping your work place safe and picked up for all the people that are messy), and  a great attention to detail.She was only 19, but a second generation welder.No games period.I guess we soon forget that during WWII alot of great  welders were femalesIt' s the ignorant males that see the difference, or a woman who uses being female that makes it bad...not  a talented person wanting to work their skillnot all of either group do, but as a few posts above prove..Some men show their asses rather quickly...
Reply:around here most independently owned shops wont hire women to work out on the floor. they wont say it publicly.. they feel it causes to much distraction...  they dont hire good looking office help for the same reason....they also dont want in-company relationships/dating/marriages, causes to much friction when problems arise.. i myself could care less.. work is work.. i wouldnt mind working with women, they are people also, and they have the right to make money anyway they can... i served my Tool&Die certification with a couple women in class, it was good to hear their point of view on different situations..  if i were married, i wouldnt want my wife working in an industrial type atmosphere though..tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:Originally Posted by dellwasI prefer being a fool as opposed to an a**hole, what's your excuse?
Reply:Originally Posted by savannursHello everyone,I have been welding for about two months, I decided to take the class at my school just to learn something new. I wasn't sure if I would like it or not, but I decided I would give it a shot. The second I struck my first arc I fell in love, I weld almost every day for hours. I am almost positive this is what I want to do for my career. I love to work with my hands and create things. Being able to manipulate metal and make almost anything I want is amazing to me. The only thing I am worried about is that I am a female and there are a lot of men that don't like the idea of a woman going into a trade. If there are any women welders on here I would like to know if you have faced any sexism, or if it is harder for you to do than it would be for a man... Just anything I should think about before going into college for it.