While browsing social media before work this morning, I came across a post in a group called Those Crazy Sign Guys. The cover photo featured a group of men standing in front of a sign. I didn't think twice about the name or the image. It's a great group of men and women networking about all things signs—showcasing work, sharing ideas, and helping one another. The founders and owners happen to be men, which isn't surprising in a male-dominated trade.
As a woman in the trades for over 30 years and a mentor to other women in male-dominated industries, I understand that most of these groups will be primarily men. It's just the reality of the industry. And this is where discretion and insight become crucial.
A young woman (I say "young" because of her attitude, not her age) recently joined the group and posted a typical "Hi, I'm new here" introduction. But almost immediately, she ranted about how uncomfortable the cover photo made her and how she disliked the word Guys in the group name.
For one, guys don't always mean men—I call my female friends "guys" all the time. More importantly, she didn't take the time to explore the group past what she perceived as an offensive cover photo. That kind of quick-trigger reaction isn't ideal for women in the trades.
I've been in that group for a while and have rarely seen anything remotely sexist. But her comments unleashed a barrage of negative responses, some crossing the line into actual sexism. Suddenly, she was being called "Karen," "crazy," and "emotional." Others used her post to reinforce old stereotypes, saying women aren't fit for the trades. And while their reaction wasn't right, it was predictable.
This is why I teach women to pick their battles carefully. Not everything is truly sexist—at least not intentionally. Not everything needs to be addressed immediately, if at all.
One of my proudest moments was the day my grandfather introduced me as his "grandson" in front of some high-profile industry leaders. He meant it as the highest compliment, saying I worked harder than any man he had ever seen. That's how we break down barriers in the trades—by earning respect through hard work and preserving our dignity.
That doesn't mean we should stay silent when real sexism happens. When something is truly inappropriate, meant to intimidate, or is outright offensive, we should absolutely address it—immediately and without hesitation. But when it comes to things like group photos or posters, why not take a proactive approach?
For example, our local high school hosts a career day every year, and I noticed that all the posters for construction, law enforcement, and other male-dominated trades only featured young men. So, I offered to design the posters for free the following year. I created one with a young man and another with a young woman, and they were displayed side by side. That's how we create real change.
The trades need more workers, and women are both needed and wanted. But if harmless words and images easily trigger some, they make it harder for the women coming behind them. Pick your battles wisely. Lead with dignity. And help create a workplace where women can thrive alongside their male counterparts.
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