Part 1 of 2 – In this episode I sat down with my friend Gina York, a self-employed female electrician, who shares her inspiring journey through the electrical trade. Gina opens up about her early experiences on the tools, the challenges of working with different customers, and what it’s really like to be a woman in a male-crowded industry. Gina also reflects on the emotional impact of having her tools stolen and how the supportive trades community rallied around her in response. We discuss the the role of social media in shaping public perception of tradespeople and the negative comments a presence can cause, the importance of comfortable and functional workwear for women on the job, and the realities of running a small electrical business.

Whether you’re a tradesperson, aspiring electrician, or simply interested in stories of resilience and independence, Gina’s story is a powerful look at what it means to build a career and community in the trades…make sure you are following the show so you don’t miss Part 2 next week!!

Key Takeaways

• Gina started her journey in the trade by helping her Dad.
• She initially pursued a career in sports teaching but quickly realized it wasn't for her.
• Being self-employed has its challenges, especially with customer interactions.
• Gina emphasizes the importance of valuing one's work and time.
• She has faced unique challenges as a woman in the trades, including customer biases.
• The emotional impact of theft on tradespeople can be profound.
• Social media can amplify both support and criticism for tradespeople.
• Gina advocates for better workwear options for women in trades.
• Gina's passion for her work shines through despite the difficulties.

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Chapters

00:00 Gina's Journey into Electrical Work

01:21 Challenges of Being Self-Employed

03:57 Customer Interactions and Payment Issues

06:43 The Value of Trades and Pricing

09:42 Advice for Aspiring Electricians

12:28 Experiences as a Female Electrician

15:09 The Impact of Van Break-Ins on Tradespeople

23:16 Processing Trauma and Vulnerability

28:26 The Impact of Theft on Self-Employment

32:52 Public Awareness and Community Support

37:27 Navigating social media and Public Perception

42:18 The Challenges of Female Representation in Trades

46:50 Workwear and Comfort in the Trades

51:20 The Importance of Problem Solving in Electrical Work

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