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Chicago Skilled Tradeswomen Leading Infrastructure Change

As the demand for skilled labor continues to rise, tradeswomen in Chicago are emerging as pivotal figures in the construction industry. According to a recent survey conducted by DEWALT, a brand under Stanley Black & Decker, these women not only feel a sense of belonging but are also enthusiastic about their future roles in shaping the country’s infrastructure.

Key Insights from the DEWALT Survey

Ahead of the Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference, a major event for women in construction, DEWALT sought to gauge the sentiments and aspirations of women in the trades. The findings reveal that:

• - 87% of respondents believe they are crucial to building the nation's future.
• - Nearly half (45%) are anticipating involvement in major infrastructure projects, specifically regarding data centers to support the AI boom.
• - A significant 52% are excited about the increasing demand for skilled workers, while 51% are looking forward to technological innovations such as AI.

Embracing Technology

The survey highlighted a progressive outlook among tradeswomen, who are open to embracing advanced technologies. For instance, 53% expressed interest in new power tools and equipment, while around 44% were keen on digital project management solutions. The willingness to adapt to these innovations is a positive sign, suggesting an industry that is evolving alongside technology.

Community Support and Job Satisfaction

Community is a crucial aspect of the tradeswomen’s experiences. An overwhelming 89% feel a sense of belonging within their teams, with 88% receiving support from their colleagues. This network fosters an environment of pride, with 87% of participants feeling proud of their work and an impressive 91% reporting confidence in their skills.

Moreover, 83% are optimistic about future opportunities for women in skilled trades, with 82% rating their career prospects in Chicago as good or excellent. These statistics paint a promising picture of a gender-diverse workforce essential for future infrastructure development.

Reasons for Continued Engagement

The survey revealed key motivations for women choosing to stay in the trades, including:

• - 38% cite job stability,
• - 30% highlight competitive pay,
• - opportunities for skill development (26%), and
• - the ability to leverage technology (25%) as essential factors.

The Importance of Mentorship

As women reflect on their experiences, the aspects they believe could help retain them in the trades include: mentorship opportunities, particularly from other women (40%), and general mentorship (37%). The Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference aims to provide such avenues through workshops and networking.

DEWALT's Commitment

Furthermore, DEWALT is actively invested in the future of the industry through its Grow The Trades initiative, committing $60 million to support education and accessibility for tradespeople. This move aims to address the existing skilled labor gap and empower the next generation of tradespeople in construction.

Conclusion

With a strong sense of community and aspirations toward technological advancements, Chicago's skilled tradeswomen stand at the forefront of building a resilient and robust infrastructure for the future. As they prepare for the upcoming conference, their contributions and voices will shape the discourse around women in construction, facilitating an inclusive atmosphere that champions diversity and progression within the industry.

For more information about DEWALT’s initiatives and to keep updated, visit dewalt.com/GrowTheTrades.