Best Resources for Women Entering the Trades in Washington
Women are a fast-growing part of the trades, and a strong support network makes all the difference. These resources recruit, train, and support women entering construction — alongside the official apprenticeship pathways open to everyone.
Last updated 2026-06-27
How we chose
We highlighted resources that actively support women in the trades plus the official, free apprenticeship pathways — weighting trust and candidate usefulness. Support-program focus adds resources; it never removes general opportunities.
Showing options that serve Washington — local Washington programs are ranked first, followed by national resources available statewide.
electrical training ALLIANCE
Union training · National
The IBEW/NECA training arm behind union electrical apprenticeships — find a local JATC and apply for paid electrician training.
Best for: Aspiring electricians who want a paid union apprenticeship
United Association (UA)
Union training · National
The union for plumbers, pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, and HVAC-R service techs — gateway to paid five-year UA apprenticeships.
Best for: Aspiring plumbers, pipefitters, and HVAC techs who want a paid union apprenticeship
Apprenticeship.gov
Government resource · National
The U.S. Department of Labor's official apprenticeship finder — search Registered Apprenticeship programs by trade and location and connect to local sponsors.
Best for: Anyone who wants a paid apprenticeship and a recognized credential without student debt
Apprenticeship.gov Partner Finder
Government resource · National
A free U.S. Department of Labor tool for finding registered apprenticeship partners — sponsors, educators, and intermediaries.
Best for: Finding official registered apprenticeship partners and program contacts
Helmets to Hardhats
Nonprofit · National
A nonprofit that connects military veterans and transitioning service members to registered apprenticeships and careers in the building trades.
Best for: Veterans and transitioning service members entering the union building trades
North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU)
Union training · National
The umbrella organization for North American construction unions — a gateway to registered union apprenticeships and the MC3 pre-apprenticeship curriculum.
Best for: Anyone seeking a paid union apprenticeship pathway
Frequently asked questions
Are there trades programs specifically for women?▾
Yes. Programs like Chicago Women in Trades offer free pre-apprenticeship training and ongoing support, and they connect directly to registered apprenticeships.
Do I have to use a women-specific program?▾
No. Every official apprenticeship pathway is open to you. Women-focused programs are an added support, not a separate or lesser track.