"When you have things like ADHD and autism and you struggle, hey, try a skilled trade because man, it turns your disability into a superpower."
What if the traits that made you feel like a misfit were actually your biggest assets? In this powerful episode, ironworker and ADHD advocate Jamie McMillan shares how growing up with undiagnosed ADHD—and being one of the few women in the skilled trades—shaped her into a force for change. Jamie opens up about how neurodiversity gave her the edge in a career she never knew existed. Today, through her organization Kick Ass Careers, she’s inspiring thousands to reimagine what success looks like—especially for women and youth who don’t fit the mold. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong, this conversation is for you.
To learn more about Jamie and her Kick Ass Careers organization visit www.kickasscareers.ca.
If you enjoyed this episode, you might want to listen to Episode 57 – Nevertheless She Persisted with Jenny Lisk or Episode 36 – Resilience in Full Color with Judith Bigham.
Also, please consider subscribing to this podcast, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with others. Thank you.
Donna’s latest book Bounce Back Stronger – Finding Peace and Purpose No Matter What Happens can be purchased here. To join our newsletter email list or get a list of upcoming events visit donnayferris.com
Follow Donna on Instagram, Bluesky, or YouTube @donnayferris or Facebook @donnayatesferris.
And if you’re looking for mental health resources, please click here or reach out to your insurance provider. If you are in crisis, please dial 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or dial 988 for the suicide hotline (US only). If you are transgender, the 24/7 Trans Lifeline in the US is 1-877-565-8860, and in Canada, it is 1-877-330-6366.
#SkilledTrades #WomenInTrades #JamieMcMillan #KickAssCareers #Podcast #STEMCareers #TradeJobs #ADHDStrengths #adhd #CareerInspiration #BounceBackStronger #Podcast #NewEpisode
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