Women in Apprenticeship

Women in Apprenticeship

IUOE is committed to expanding opportunities for women in the skilled trades. Women across North America are building successful, long-term careers as Operating Engineers and Stationary Engineers—earning competitive wages, strong benefits, and industry-recognized credentials through registered apprenticeship programs.

Apprenticeship with IUOE offers women a clear, structured pathway into high-demand careers that value skill, safety, and professionalism.

Why Choose Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship provides a direct route into a stable, rewarding career—without student debt. As an IUOE apprentice, you earn while you learn, gaining hands-on experience while receiving classroom instruction and industry training. Benefits of apprenticeship include:

• Competitive wages that increase as skills and experience grow
• Healthcare coverage and retirement benefits
• Industry-recognized credentials
• Long-term career stability and advancement opportunities

Earn While You Learn
IUOE apprenticeship programs combine paid, on-the-job training with structured classroom and field instruction. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced journey-level professionals while developing the technical and practical skills needed to succeed in the trades.

Training is delivered through more than 100 local union training centers across the United States and Canada, as well as at the International Training & Education Center (ITEC)—one of the most advanced training facilities of its kind.

A Career in a Non-Traditional Field
Careers in construction, infrastructure, and building operations offer women opportunities to work with advanced technology, problem-solving, and teamwork. Operating and Stationary Engineers rely on precision, situational awareness, and technical expertise—skills where women consistently excel.

Women in IUOE work across a wide range of industries, including construction, energy, pipeline, industrial operations, healthcare facilities, and public service. These careers offer flexibility, mobility, and the opportunity to build a future that supports both professional and personal goals.

Support, Safety, and Equal Opportunity
IUOE apprenticeship programs are registered and regulated, ensuring clear standards, fair treatment, and structured advancement. Women apprentices receive the same protections, training opportunities, and benefits as all members. 

Take The Next Steps 
If you’re looking for a career that offers strong training, steady work, and long-term opportunity, apprenticeship with IUOE could be the right path for you. There are multiple ways to begin an apprenticeship journey with IUOE: 

• Join Now — Apply directly to IUOE to learn more about apprenticeship opportunities for women and connect with an IUOE local near you.
• Job Corps — pre-apprenticeship training for young adults
• Helmets to Hardhats— apprenticeship pathways for women veterans and service members