Taylor's Story: Breaking the Mold in the Plumbing Trade
Interview by Terry Bierwirth
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a good plumbing story. Not just pipes and wrenches, but the grit it takes to show up, do the work and surprise everyone—including yourself—along the way.
That’s what I saw when I sat down with Taylor, a third-year apprentice in the plumbing program at Lane Community College. She’s not just learning the trade; she’s living it, breaking stereotypes and proving that talent and tenacity know no gender.
A Path Paved with Determination
Taylor’s journey into plumbing wasn’t a straight shot. Like so many, the pandemic flipped her world upside down. Before COVID, she was in the hospitality industry, working a restaurant job that paid the bills—but barely. When layoffs came, she found herself on a job site, doing what she could to make ends meet.
Her first gig? Cleaning up wood rounds and keeping the worksite safe. What should’ve taken days, she knocked out in hours. That work ethic caught people’s attention. Before long, Taylor was installing plumbing fixtures and hearing, “You should really think about an apprenticeship.”
So, she did.
Learning the Ropes
Taylor’s now a few years into her apprenticeship, splitting her time between classroom lessons and hands-on work with Precision Plumbing, a small company with big respect for its team. She’s earning $23–$24 an hour, with regular raises as she climbs the ranks. By the time she journeys out in winter 2025, she’ll be making close to $40 an hour. Not bad for a career where you work with your hands, solve problems, and always have job security.
But it’s not just about the paycheck. Taylor says what makes the job worthwhile is the respect she’s found. “They treat me like I belong here,” she says. “If I make a mistake, they show me how to fix it without making me feel dumb. It’s all about learning.”
Breaking Barriers, Changing Perceptions
As a woman in the trade, Taylor knows she’s in rare company. Only about 2–4% of plumbers in the U.S. are women. That number is even lower in countries like Australia. But here’s the thing: Taylor doesn’t just fit in—she stands out.
Homeowners often react to her differently than they do her male colleagues. “Women are usually relieved when I show up,” Taylor says. “They’re nervous about having a guy in the house. And older men? They’ll stand over me and say, ‘I could’ve done this myself if I had the time.’ Then they just… watch.”
It’s a funny dynamic, but Taylor handles it with grace and humor.
Looking Ahead
When asked if she’s having fun, Taylor doesn’t hesitate: “I have so much fun every day!” She’s not just building a career; she’s building a life. With plans to double her income, buy a house, and start a family, plumbing has given her something hospitality couldn’t—a future she can be proud of.
And for those wondering if the trades are worth it? Taylor has a simple message: “There’s no downside to learning a trade. You’ll grow as a person, help your family, and find work that’s rewarding. Plus, you’ll never run out of things to fix.”
Final Thoughts
Taylor’s story is proof that hard work and heart can take you anywhere. She’s inspiring others—not just women, but anyone unsure of their path—to take a chance on the trades.
So here’s to Taylor, and here’s to plumbing: the job that’s as essential as the people who do it.
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