Episode 13 - Chelsea Fenton

Chelsea Fenton: Pioneering Women in Construction

In this episode, Chelsea Fenton (@thatunionlaborer), a 32-year-old union laborer from Western Massachusetts, shares her inspiring journey from aspiring to be a firefighter to excelling in the construction industry. Chelsea discusses the challenges she overcame, including being denied entry into the apprenticeship program twice before finally being accepted. She explains how her father’s support and the invaluable mentorship from seasoned colleagues helped her succeed. Chelsea also talks about her significant role in cofounding Western Mass Tradeswomen to support and connect women in the construction trades. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of persistence, finding mentors, and maintaining work-life balance. Chelsea is actively involved in outreach and education to attract more women to the trades, underscoring her dedication to the future of the industry.

00:00 Introduction and Early Life

02:04 Career Aspirations and Challenges

11:41 Union Involvement and Growth

18:54 Forming Western Mass Tradeswomen

27:00 Challenges Women Face in Construction

29:02 Retention Challenges and Mentorship

30:39 Becoming a Foreman

35:56 Social Media Influence

42:12 Family and Personal Life

44:09 Future Aspirations and Advice

https://www.wmtradeswomen.org/