I recently did some volunteer work at a local womens shelter by helping to hang drywall in one of their new family rooms. The soreness the next day reminded me of the physical nature of the work I plan to do.
Whether Divatude comes naturally or not, everyone can benefit from a strong fitness plan.
After a thorough search for the best buff for my buck, I have decided to go with 24Hour Fitness. Besides the obvious perk of being able to 'get my buff on' at all hours of the day, the variety of classes defintely piqued my interest. They have everything a diva could want--strength training, yoga/pilates, dance (can't wait to Zumba!), kickboxing, cycling, water training....you name it and it can probably be found there. PLUS, a basketball gym, lap pool, sauna and whirlpool. AND of course, the obligatory free weights, cardio machines and circuit training.
Construction work is physical work, and being in shape is a requirement for anyone seeking to make their way. For women, this is even more necessary, as many of the men encountered will have preconcieved ideas about your abilities anyway. Be ready to put in your 10 to 12 hour days, and another 2 at the gym. In the long run, your efforts will pay off.
Showing posts with label women in carpentry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label women in carpentry. Show all posts
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010
Dealing with sexism is not new to me.
In my previous career, I started out as a lowly clerk. It was the early 90s. The title insurance industry was as male-dominated as the rest of corporate Amerca. Although most of the work was performed by women, the underwriting was spearheaded by men. As I began my rise through the ranks, I consistently found myself face to face with a male superior. It was always a man standing in the way of my ascent into management. And it was ultimately a man who gave me the opportunity to own and operate my own company. Like many women before me, I had learned to navigate the 'boys club'. I could speak their language. I had earned their respect.
The construction trades offer a different challenge. This is still very much a man's world - dirty, sweaty, and foul-mouthed. Men of all ages and sizes engage in ritualistic displays of strength and skill, unfettered by societal rules and manners. Here education takes a back seat to brute strength. Here a man can stratch his balls, spit, and belch with impunity. The epitome of the He Man Woman Haters Club. Women are not welcomed. Any female would have a hard time assimilating into this alien world.
Me? I am a Diva. I dream of the day my toolbelt matches my hardhat. I search the internet for attractive work clothes. I am constantly on the lookout for makeup that can withstand the rigors of dirt and sweat without running or smearing. It would seem I am out of my element. That's where the Roughneck comes in. I curse like a sailor. There is no life without football (GO STEELERS!!!). I may not drink much anymore, but trust me when I say I remember how. I take great pleasure in going against society's ideas of what a woman should be. But at the end of the day, I am still a woman.
Sexism and construction go hand in hand. A thick skin, and a great sense of humor, is definitely going to be needed to navigate through the testosterone zone. I expect to be lied to, conjoled, patronized, pooh poohed, riduculed and sneered at. But as the saying goes, if you can't take the heat stay out of the kitchen. In the end, it will be my own determination and fortitude that decides whether or not I can be ran off.
I'd put my money on the Diva. It ain't over til she sings anyway.
In my previous career, I started out as a lowly clerk. It was the early 90s. The title insurance industry was as male-dominated as the rest of corporate Amerca. Although most of the work was performed by women, the underwriting was spearheaded by men. As I began my rise through the ranks, I consistently found myself face to face with a male superior. It was always a man standing in the way of my ascent into management. And it was ultimately a man who gave me the opportunity to own and operate my own company. Like many women before me, I had learned to navigate the 'boys club'. I could speak their language. I had earned their respect.
The construction trades offer a different challenge. This is still very much a man's world - dirty, sweaty, and foul-mouthed. Men of all ages and sizes engage in ritualistic displays of strength and skill, unfettered by societal rules and manners. Here education takes a back seat to brute strength. Here a man can stratch his balls, spit, and belch with impunity. The epitome of the He Man Woman Haters Club. Women are not welcomed. Any female would have a hard time assimilating into this alien world.
Me? I am a Diva. I dream of the day my toolbelt matches my hardhat. I search the internet for attractive work clothes. I am constantly on the lookout for makeup that can withstand the rigors of dirt and sweat without running or smearing. It would seem I am out of my element. That's where the Roughneck comes in. I curse like a sailor. There is no life without football (GO STEELERS!!!). I may not drink much anymore, but trust me when I say I remember how. I take great pleasure in going against society's ideas of what a woman should be. But at the end of the day, I am still a woman.
Sexism and construction go hand in hand. A thick skin, and a great sense of humor, is definitely going to be needed to navigate through the testosterone zone. I expect to be lied to, conjoled, patronized, pooh poohed, riduculed and sneered at. But as the saying goes, if you can't take the heat stay out of the kitchen. In the end, it will be my own determination and fortitude that decides whether or not I can be ran off.
I'd put my money on the Diva. It ain't over til she sings anyway.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
The Beginning
After many years and countless hours of watching HGTV and DIY Network, I finally admitted to myself I had a secret desire to handle power tools. I also realized that I wanted to create beautiful places for folks to live; calm, colorful refuges from the raging recession outside. When I heard about a free program that offered basic training and certifications in the construction industry, I took a deep breath and enrolled.
It is estimated that about 6% of all construction jobs are held down by women. However, that number is expected to increase significantly as the economy recovers and more stimulus funds for roads and green jobs becomes available.
As I traverse the male dominiated world of construction, I invite you to stop by from time to time. I hope to bring a new and insightful look into the murky world of power tools and heavy equipment.
It is estimated that about 6% of all construction jobs are held down by women. However, that number is expected to increase significantly as the economy recovers and more stimulus funds for roads and green jobs becomes available.
As I traverse the male dominiated world of construction, I invite you to stop by from time to time. I hope to bring a new and insightful look into the murky world of power tools and heavy equipment.
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