Women Are Paving The Way in Construction: Here’s How To Break Barriers and Access Free Training

The use of a blowtorch to cut metal is one of the things these women learned during their time working in construction. / Photos: Aurelia Ventura.

LOS ANGELES - From Metro's The Source, Mey Lyn Mitteenn writes about Amanda Cordova and Gabriela Reynoso, two women who work construction on Metro's D Line Subway Extension Project.

Clad in boots, vest, safety glasses, gloves, and a helmet, Amanda Cordova never imagined she would work in construction. Previously, she was a manager at a deli in a supermarket, until one day a friend, already working in the sector, told her that the construction industry needed more women. She hesitated, but her curiosity was stronger, so she decided to give it a chance.     

Today, two years later, Amanda works as a laborer on the Section 2 of Metro’s D Line Subway Extension Project. She has learned how to use tools, install pipes, cut steel with a torch, and demolish walls. She also operates a 60-foot platform truck to move materials. “I have to put a cushion on the seat because I’m only 4’11” … but nothing stops me,” she says with a smile.   

 Although nerves were initially her biggest challenge, Amanda says that her confidence grew as she learned, “I believe construction is a great opportunity, and women also have the skills for this.”     

Her coworker, Gabriela Reynoso, shares her perspective. Her career also started unexpectedly; she transitioned to the industry after working at a bank counter. “I wasn’t earning enough, and after my divorce, I had to find a way to support my family,” says the mother of four. “I wanted to give this a chance, and so far, I love it.”     

With 10 years of experience, Gabriela has learned how to mix and pour concrete, prepare sites, dig trenches, and even pave asphalt. “This job requires physical effort, and sometimes you have to start early in the morning, but the opportunity lies in the salary,” she explains. “I live in Bakersfield, where I was earning $36 per hour, but I drive to Los Angeles because the pay is better.”     

Gabriela points out that many people start out as what the industry defines as “laborers” (that is, at the entry-level positions). But there are plenty of opportunities to specialize in different areas and advance in the field. “Plus, you can access benefits like medical and vision coverage, as well as a pension plan for you and your family,” she says.     

Despite the positive experiences of women like Amanda and Gabriela, they are outliers. In 2024, women represented less than 11% of the national construction workforce, and only 4% held specialized trades within the industry, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. While Metro has made progress –– 3.7% of our construction workers were women in 2023, while higher than the Greater LA Region average of 1.9% –– there’s still a long way to go in order to reach gender parity.      

“I think many of us don’t fully know about all the benefits within this industry, and some of us are afraid to start,” says Gabriela, who also had doubts at the beginning. “It’s normal, and over time, you learn… I believe we are capable of doing many things, we just have to take the leap and become go-getters.”     

Free construction training   

To increase female participation in the industry, Metro, in collaboration with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Business and Construction Trades Council, launched a Joint Awareness Campaign and together created the website, Women Breaking Ground in March 2024.    

 The Joint Awareness Campaign initiative aims to encourage women in Los Angeles County to pursue careers in construction and contribute to the region’s development. After the devastating fires that swept the Palisades and Altadena areas this past January, destroying over 16,000 structures, the demand for skilled workers is very real.      

The site provides any woman who wants to participate in the reconstruction process or work on other projects access to free training programs. Whether she’s new to the industry or has decades of experience, she’ll learn how to advance her career in this exciting field.     

By clicking the “I’m Interested” button on the website and completing a short form, participants will receive information about various training programs offered at 19 schools in Los Angeles County. These 10- to 12-week programs cover up to 15 trades, including sheet metal, roofing, carpentry, electrical, cement masonry, and more     

No prior experience or diploma is required, and training is available for all skill levels. Since its launch, over 900 people have already inquired about the program! The excitement is growing, and opportunities await.      

One of the biggest advantages of this program is that apprentices get paid while they train, eliminating the burden of student debt. As they develop their skills, they can also advance in their careers and earn higher wages. Pay rates vary depending on experience, with apprentices earning between $17 and $57 per hour, while journeywomen can make between $17 and $67 per hour.      

But it’s not just about the pay. This industry also offers benefits like medical coverage and a pension plan, allowing participants to plan for the future.        

Learn more    

 If you’re interested in joining the construction industry, visit Women Breaking Ground –– available in English, Spanish, and five other languages. Don’t miss out! Start your career in construction and be part of the change that’s transforming the industry.