Discover how female carpenter Emily aka Chippie Em turned an unexpected career twist into a thriving profession in the skilled trades. After a plumbing apprenticeship didn’t pan out, Emily discovered her true calling in carpentry. What started as a labouring job turned into a thriving career as she learned from seasoned tradespeople and honed her skills. In this episode, Emily shares the highs and lows of being a woman in a male-dominated/crowded field, from navigating unique challenges to finding unexpected opportunities for connection and mentorship.
She reveals why structural carpentry is her favourite part of the craft, the camaraderie that keeps job sites fun and supportive, and the joy of watching clients’ homes transform. Emily also talks about balancing demanding projects with personal time, building brand partnerships, and how social media has grown from a simple portfolio into a side career. Above all, she highlights the importance of community and solidarity among women in the trades.
Whether you’re curious about carpentry jobs, looking for tips on women in construction, or simply love inspiring career stories, this episode delivers practical insight and motivation.
Key Takeaways
- Emily's journey into carpentry began unexpectedly after a plumbing apprenticeship fell through.
- She found her passion for carpentry while labouring and learning from experienced tradesmen.
- Being a female carpenter comes with unique challenges, but also opportunities for connection.
- Emily enjoys structural carpentry the most, finding satisfaction in building from the ground up.
- The camaraderie among tradespeople can lead to deep friendships and support on the job.
- She finds joy in seeing clients' excitement as their homes are transformed.
- Brand partnerships have become a significant part of her career, enhancing her visibility.
- Social media has evolved from a portfolio tool to a what you could say was a second job for Emily.
- Emily emphasizes the importance of community and support among women in trades.
Follow Me:
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie
Follow Guest:
Instagram: @chippie.em
Youtube: @Chippie_em
Chapters
00:00 Emily's Journey into Carpentry
02:03 Experiences as a Female Carpenter
04:49 The Joy of Carpentry Projects
07:41 Balancing Work and Personal Life
10:19 Favourite Projects and Client Relationships
13:06 Brand Partnerships and Future Plans
19:13 The Impact of social media on Tradespeople
22:15 Home Renovation Journey
28:15 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights
37:41 Thanks for listening
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