Forging the future of metal: The critical role of allies in advancing women in the trades

MCS Influencer Jon Olson says building a trades community defined by craftsmanship, opportunity and respect benefits everyone. 

In my role as a trainer at The Malco Group, I have the privilege of working alongside people at every stage of their careers — from those just entering the trades, to highly experienced professionals. One of the most encouraging shifts I continue to see across the metal industry is the growing number of women building meaningful, skilled careers in the trades. 

At The Malco Group, women contribute across many areas of our business, helping strengthen both our company and the broader trades community. Supporting skill development — whether it’s cutting, forming, fastening sheet metal or building industry knowledge in office-based roles ultimately makes our workforce stronger and better prepared for the future.  

Creating pathways into the trades starts with access and visibility. For many people, exposure to the industry simply hasn’t always been available. Something as straightforward as inviting someone to observe a jobsite, participate in training or learn about the range of career opportunities can make a lasting impact. Seeing the precision involved in trimming metal roofing details or fabricating HVAC components often changes perceptions about what a career in the trades can look like. 

Mentorship also plays an important role. Having a trusted resource to answer questions, share experience and provide guidance benefits anyone learning a new craft. When mentorship is approached with openness and mutual respect, it helps build confidence and accelerates growth — not just for individuals, but for teams as a whole. 

If you are lucky enough to be mentoring the next generation to embrace metal jobs, consider that our limits are usually set by our own comfort zone and norms. Teaching my oldest daughter to weld has been a rewarding experience that I’m sure others would enjoy experiencing with their children. When we focus less on traditional expectations and more on interest and ability, we create space for the next generation of talent to emerge. 

Together, we are helping build a trades community defined by craftsmanship, opportunity and respect — and that benefits everyone.