CWIT

Who we are Founded in 1981, Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) is dedicated to increasing women’s economic equity through greater access to and representation of women in nontraditional, blue collar, high wage occupations. CWIT is the only organization in Illinois working consistently on issues concerning equitable employment conditions and policies for women in the trades and other nontraditional occupations and a leader of this work nationally. Our members work in the construction, transportation, and manufacturing fields as electricians, machinists, carpenters, auto mechanics, laborers, and as other well-paid, skilled workers. These jobs, with wages up to $35 per hour, on-the-job training and health care benefits through union membership, enable women to overcome poverty and support their families. Yet, these trades remain overwhelmingly male-dominated. In most trades, women make up less than 3% of the work force. Numerous barriers still impede women’s access and entry into nontraditional jobs. Moreover, tradeswomen face many obstacles on the job, such as isolation and sexual harassment.Mission and Goals CWIT is committed to creating a future of economic equity for women by increasing the number of women working in well-paid, skilled trade jobs traditionally held by men and by eliminating the barriers that prohibit women from entering and succeeding in these fields. To accomplish these goals CWIT provides support, advocacy, and education to tradeswomen; works to increase training for women and girls to enter nontraditional jobs; provides technical assistance to employer, unions, and other tradeswomen groups; documents trends in the nontraditional workplace; and advocates for improved policies and practices that support women’s access to nontraditional training and jobs, as well as success and safety on the job.History We began in 1980 as a small group of women working in the trades who met each month to provide each other with support and tips for surviving in an often-hostile work environment. A part-time director was hired in 1986. Since then, CWIT has developed into an advocacy, research, support and training agency which serves hundreds of women and girls in the Chicagoland area each year and impacts policy issues at both a local and national level.As the demand for our services increased, CWIT grew from a small, all volunteer networking group into a multi-service organization with three direct service programs, numerous policy initiatives, technical assistance services and twelve staff. Volunteers still play a significant role in carrying out CWIT work; over fifty tradeswomen participate as trainers, role models, and mentors in our programs. Other volunteers help run the membership activities and provide governance for the organization.