Thanks to anti-discrimination laws and LGBTQ-friendly support groups, there are more out professionals in the workforce than ever. However, some workplaces or industries may be less inclusive, such as skilled trades like electrical. LGBTQ+ electricians and other trade workers will need to be attentive when finding employers and work environments in order to thrive. By utilizing some simple but strategic tactics, LGBTQ+ electricians can build a lifelong successful career free from harm.
Research Your Employers
Most electricians don’t graduate trade school and immediately jump into owning a business. It’s quite common to become an employee under another electrician or electrical company. Not all workplaces will be welcoming to LGBTQ+ electricians. It’s important to research each employer by navigating through their online presence, employee reviews, and company history to get a feel for the type of culture they’ll offer. Ask questions in the interview about the workplace environment and discrimination practices. Get recommendations from locals about inclusive workspaces. It can be incredibly difficult to thrive in a harmful work environment; with research, you can lower the chances of workplace discrimination.
Obtain a License
As an LGBTQ+ electrician, you may want to obtain a license as soon as possible, even if it isn’t required at the beginning of your journey. In most states, apprenticeships don’t require licensing yet. However, obtaining a license quicker allows you to start a business of your own or work solo if desired, which will give you more opportunities to enjoy a safe and successful career. Licensing requirements will vary by state, so you’ll want to prepare in various ways according to your local laws.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, there are many types of electrical licenses at the journeyworker and master levels. You will need to provide proof of electrical experience, fill out an application, pay fees, and pass a state exam. State-approved Minnesota electrical continuing education is also required before you can renew your license as well.
California
While California is a generally welcoming state for LGBTQ+ professionals of all types, you will need to prove four years of experience before you can obtain an electrical license here. There are specific insurance and financial requirements, too. California requires passing two exams instead of the typical one.
Washington
Like California, Washington offers many state legal protections for LGBTQ+ workers. There are three main types of electrical licenses here that cover different responsibilities—Journeyworker, Master Electrician, and Electrical Administrator. You’ll need to provide at least 8,000 hours of work history under a certified electrician, as well as 96 hours of classroom instruction. There is a unique exam for each license, too.
Network With Other LGBTQ+ Electricians
There are thousands of openly LGBTQ+ blue collar workers. There may even be a decent amount near you. You can network with these electricians and other blue collar workers for support, resources, and employer or job recommendations. You may find a business partner if desired! Look for in-person support groups, clubs, or meetups for LGBTQ-friendly electricians or trade workers. You can find social media groups on places like LinkedIn and Reddit for more options. When you reach out and form professional friendships with others like you, it can boost your chances of career success in many ways.
Start Your Own Business
It’s important to understand that while there are inclusive and discrimination-free workplaces for all fields, including electrical, not all practice these habits. Trade jobs can be unfriendly toward women or LGBTQ+ workers at times. If you don’t want to worry about the beliefs and practices of your employer, you can start a business yourself or with other likeminded electricians. By providing a safe and supportive space for your and others’ careers to flourish, you can focus on the work instead of discrimination. When you’re licensed and insured, you can start a business easily once you establish goals and a formal plan.
Join Support Groups
Since blue-collar and trade fields can be fairly conservative work environments, there are a ton of support and resource groups for LGBTQ+ workers like electricians to use as needed. Groups like The Build Out Alliance, Reckoning Trade Project, Lavender Rights Project, and more can help the LGBTQ+ trades communities find safe and inclusive workplaces, unions, and legal help.
Learn Anti-Discrimination Laws
In some jurisdictions, it’s illegal to harass or fire an employee based on protected statuses, including gender identity or sexual orientation. Research your area’s specific laws regarding employment discrimination and wrongful firing. Find lawyers specializing in employment discrimination and LGBTQ+ rights issues if you want tailored advice or to pursue a potential case. A qualified attorney can inform you of your rights in the workplace or in the event you’re fired based on your sexual orientation. Understanding your rights is the first step to protecting yourself and thriving in your career.
Conclusion
While some trade workers and businesses may not be friendly to LGBTQ+ people, that doesn’t mean you have to choose a different career path. It’s important to be yourself and know your values. If a workplace or coworker doesn’t foster an environment for you to thrive, you have support and options. Try to leave harmful or discriminatory workplaces as soon as possible. Seek support from loved ones, friends, and mental health professionals. LGBTQ+ professionals deserve a safe and inclusive environment to start a thriving career. With the right attitude and research, you can nurture a secure and lucrative electrical career.
