Chicago Women in Trades
CHICAGO WOMEN IN TRADES works to increase the number of women in the skilled trades and other blue collar occupations and to eliminate the barriers that prohibit women from entering and remaining in non-traditional careers. Chicago Women in Trades is a nonprofit organization committed to improving womens economic equity by increasing the number of women working in well-paid, skilled trade jobs traditionally held by men. The organization, established by tradeswomen, addresses the barriers that prohibit women and girls from entering and succeeding in male-dominated industries by creating opportunities and promoting equitable and female-friendly environments.
Chicago Women in Trades
Overview
Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) is a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing women's economic equity by promoting their participation in high-wage, traditionally male-dominated trades. Founded in 1981 by tradeswomen, CWIT aims to create opportunities for women in construction apprenticeships and other non-traditional occupations.
Mission and Objectives
CWIT focuses on two core strategies:
- Empowering Women: The organization prepares women to compete for and succeed in construction apprenticeship programs and other non-traditional jobs. This is achieved through comprehensive training programs designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge.
- Industry Advancement: CWIT works to improve industry capacity and receptivity through policy advocacy, technical assistance, and fostering an environment supportive of women in trades.
Training Programs
CWIT offers three free comprehensive hands-on training programs:
- Technical Opportunities Program (TOP): A 12-week program preparing women for careers in trades such as carpentry, electrical work, and labor.
- Women Build Illinois: A 10-week program offering a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training, focusing on construction career opportunities.
- Women in Welding: A welding certification program preparing participants for careers in manufacturing and construction industries.
Impact and Demographics
Approximately 70% of CWIT's participants identify as Black or Latina women. Despite these efforts, women still comprise only about 5% of Illinois' construction workforce. CWIT's mission also emphasizes the need to address economic and cultural barriers faced by women in the trades.
Legal Actions
In 2025, CWIT filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over executive orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The lawsuit argues that these orders create confusion, stifle free speech, and threaten CWIT's ability to expand economic opportunities for women. The action is part of broader legal challenges to these executive orders across the U.S.
Financial and Organizational Structure
CWIT receives significant federal funding, which is crucial for its operations. However, due to legal challenges, the organization faces uncertainty regarding the continuation of these funds, impacting its ability to support women in trades.
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Chicago Women in Trades – Our community of tradeswomen, industry allies, and advocates are committed to reshaping the landscape of skilled labor.
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