WomenCo.

I'm a young woman been working most of my life in either kitchen work or on a farm of some sort... Here i am, 18 years old, just finished a summer welding class at pine tech... Im now looking for a job in the welding field, yet i also would like to attend college for bike mechanics and agriculture. Yet people look at me like im crazy because here I am a young lady jumping into a career with a bunch of men. I'm almost always polite but sad to say alot of men underestimate me in my abilities to get the job done. I try not to allow myself to get upset about the women cracks in a male field of work because i know if i do i will just stoop to their level. They look at me like I'm the dumb blonde on those silly chick flicks because i like to dress nice and keep myself looking clean and well kept and occassionally get my nails done but i don't want to necessarily grunge down for their benefit.. If anyone has any input on this topic please let me know i don't know how many women have unique intrests like this.

stgreg11 says ...

More power to you, Ang! Explore different courses and decide what you want to do. There is no reason a woman cannot excel at a "man's" job.

I'm with stgreg.  I thinks its great to see women in typical malefields just like its neat to see a male nurses etc..  Do what you love! I've worked in prodominately male fields and I'd rather work with a bunch of men than a bunch of women, a lot less drama.

 Congratulations on your decision about what to do with your life.  I believe there is no cure for ignorance and sexism like a competent woman.  Keep your focus on improving your skills and on becoming the best you can possibly be.  Over time, your quality performance will speak louder and more clearly than anything you could possibly say verbally.  And you'll likely notice the men less and less willing to speak out against your efforts.  Show them with dignity and grace that their jokes and comments simply don't work on you.  And always keep your sense of humor.  You will outshine everyone around you.  Best of luck!  

...and remember, you always have us to come and talk to!

Paula

Hey gals...why are we even thinking about MEN's field is different from ours..did we believe in it at the first place or it was how we learn to call it men's job....My opinion :one can do anything she/he wantes to do as far as she is commited and believe in herself. You have to be focused and determined then everything else is just a myth. There is no difference between male or female in terms of ability. Ya, ok I agree men are physically stronger than women but its just thier body structure. We all seeing how women getting more successful everyday , we also have seen so many strong women in the past (stone age)and we will see more of them in the future. So, girl friend go for your goals and dreams you are going to be more than alright. Just remember be focuse and dont let any talk get to you.We only here once and we have to make a most of it.....

I'm betting the guys are just uncomfortable with having to work with you, perhaps it's a new experience for them.  But if they have a problem with you being there -- that's their problem, not yours.  If this is what you want to do, study hard, work hard, and as you build your skills and experience you will gain the confidence.  Men and women are different -- we bring different skill sets to the table. and we have a lot to contribute in any field we engage.  The crass talk at work -- you just have to set limits with them as you can, don't let it get to you.