"Transitioning from retail to the IBEW was like going from night to day. Instead of being stuck at a job that had little in the way of advancement, I started learning how to do the things that I really enjoy. My trade classes in high school and college had planted these seeds that are now sprouting as I continue my apprenticeship. And having teachers encourage me to apply for an IBEW apprenticeship was extremely important when I was first looking to learn the trade.

Being in the IBEW has helped me become more involved with other women in the trade as well. Since I joined, I've helped start our local's new women's committee and we're currently working towards getting our charter. We're also working on a mentoring program to help our sisters find new ways to approach on-the-job tasks that make more sense for different body types.