Check out the PowHERful Women Mentorship Program and find a mentor in the trades:

https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentee

Want to be a mentor for someone entering the trades? Sign up here: https://cewd.mentorcollective.org/register/cewd-corporate/mentor

In this episode, brought to you by the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD), host Concetta Defa is joined by industry leader Vicki O'Leary, Director of Diversity and General Organizer for Ironworkers International, to dive deep into what pay and compensation really look like for tradeswomen.

In part 1 of "Money, Money, Money", Concetta and Vicki talk about how union wage structures and benefits work, including full family healthcare and pensions. They talk about what to expect in terms of career growth and financial milestones, and how pre-apprenticeship programs and organizing empower women to find the right fit in the trades. Learn about the diversity of energy sector projects—from offshore wind to solar fields and nuclear work - and how tradeswomen earn equal pay and advance quickly compared to other careers, despite the myths you may have heard.

If you're considering a career in the energy industry, want insider tips on maximizing your earning potential, or just love hearing inspiring stories from passionate tradeswomen, this episode is for you! Don't miss part two for even more details about money in the trades.

Check this episode out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/emL9j_5Az6o

👉Are you interested in energy industry careers or want insight into the real experiences of women building the future? Visit https://www.hirepowher.org/

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring Power Hour episodes from Hire PowHER!

Hire PowHER! introduces women to the skilled trades of the energy industry by offering a career roadmap and diving into the opportunities for fulfilling, well-paying careers with purpose. Concetta Defa, experienced IBEW journey worker and proud supporter of women in the trades, brings real role models from women in the trades for real talk and real guidance. A new initiative by the Center for Energy Workforce Development, Hire PowHER! is for anyone with passion or curiosity about the energy sector. There's a place and need for you in energy, whether you're hands-on, strategic, creative, or community-driven. Join our next webinar here and step into a career where your PowHER truly matters: https://getintoenergy.org/hire-powher/powher-hours/

This episode features the webinar "Money, Money, Money" from December 2nd, 2025.

Produced by Through The Noise: https://www.getthroughthenoise.com/