Changing Perceptions: The Real Story of Careers in Skilled Trades – April 16, 2026 | Presented by CareerRise
The CareerRise Industry Partnership webinar highlighted the growing demand for skilled trades workers and the opportunity to expand women’s participation in these careers. Julie Strzempko, Lead, Career Pathways at Center for Energy Workforce Development, shared that women remain significantly underrepresented in skilled trades. Still, initiatives like Higher Power are working to close that gap by preparing women for careers in the energy sector through training and support.
The discussion emphasized multiple entry pathways—including pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships—and the importance of foundational skills like basic math readiness. Julie also addressed common misconceptions about trades, noting that women bring valuable transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and manual dexterity, and are succeeding across a wide range of roles.
The session also explored barriers to entry, stressing the need for greater awareness of career options and clearer connections between existing skills and trade opportunities.
Featured Speaker: – Julie Strzempko, Lead, Career Pathways, Center for Energy Workforce Development
