Women in the Trades

What does it really look like to build a long‑term career as a woman in the trades?

In this episode recorded at World of Concrete, Milwaukee Tool Product Manager, Hailey, sits down with Kilah, a concrete finisher with 27 years of experience and Business Manager for the Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA). Kilah shares her journey entering the trades at 18, working her way through the field, and earning leadership roles through peer election. 

The conversation explores the realities women face on the jobsite, from physical demands and expectations to the importance of mentorship, apprenticeship programs, and working smarter over time. Kilah explains why mentorship is critical for retention and growth, and why women represent an untapped opportunity across the trades. 

They also discuss how jobsite systems and equipment, like properly designed workwear and ergonomically supportive tools, can help improve safety, productivity, and confidence for professionals doing demanding work every day. 

This episode offers practical insights for contractors, general contractors, and anyone interested in how the trades are changing and how experience, support, and smarter systems are shaping the future of the workforce. 

🔗 Learn more about Milwaukee Women’s Workwear: Workwear 

🔗 Learn more about Milwaukee’s MX FUEL™ System: Explore the M18, M12 & MX FUEL™ Cordless Tool Systems | Milwaukee Tool  

Follow Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA) for more insight (@opcmiaintl):  

• Website: Operative Plasterers' & Cement Masons' International Association - The Official Website of the OPCMIA 
• Facebook: Operative Plasterers' & Cement Masons' International Association (OPCMIA) | Facebook 
• YouTube: OPCMIA Quality & Value 
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