There is an important distinction between businesses that practice equity and those that showcase equality. A hospital, for example, may have enough PPE for all staff members, but a lot of that PPE is ill-fitting for most women. An equitable, not equal, resolution would be to ensure that all medical staff have PPE that fits them. Many skilled trades face similar issues, like female welders having to wear steel-toed boots and gloves that are at least two sizes too big, or construction workers dealing with a fall harness strap going directly on their chest. These inequitable practices not only create issues of safety and work efficiency, but also undermines efforts to create a more diverse skilled workforce.
Ensuring that workplaces are truly equitable means addressing the structural barriers that disproportionately affect underrepresented workers. While more women are entering skilled trades than ever before, many still face challenges such as a lack of properly fitting tools, safety equipment, and uniforms. Standard work gear, from welding helmets to tool belts, is often designed with an average male frame in mind, making it difficult for women and smaller-built workers to perform their jobs safely and comfortably. Without adjustments, these oversights can lead to higher injury rates, reduced efficiency, and even deter new talent from pursuing careers in these industries.
Beyond equipment, equity in skilled trades extends to training opportunities, mentorship programs, and workplace policies that support all workers equally. Many apprenticeship programs are structured around traditional career paths that historically favored men, leaving women and minorities without the same level of guidance or advancement opportunities. Companies that prioritize equity—by offering mentorships tailored to diverse employees, adjusting workplace policies to support work-life balance, and fostering inclusive job sites—help create a stronger, more sustainable workforce. By removing these barriers, industries can fully embrace the talent and innovation that a diverse workforce brings.
Written by: Caleb Cunningham Stand-By Personnel