What Are the Best Trades for Women in the UK?

The trades industry in the UK has long been seen as a male-dominated field, but that’s changing fast. Women are breaking barriers, picking up tools, and building rewarding careers in trades like never before. If you’re a woman considering a trade, you’re in for a world of opportunity - practical skills, good pay, and the chance to be your own boss. But which trade is the best fit? 

Today we’re breaking down your best options:

Why Choose a Trade?

Trades offer a hands-on career with real benefits. You can earn a solid income-often £30,000 or more annually once established-without needing a degree. Many trades let you work flexibly, either for a company or as your own boss. Plus, the demand for skilled tradespeople in the UK is high, with shortages in fields like plumbing, electrical work, and tiling. For women, trades also provide a chance to challenge stereotypes and build a career that’s both creative and practical.

Top Trades for Women

Here’s a rundown of some of the best trades for women in the UK, based on demand, earning potential, and accessibility.

1. Tiling

Tiling is a fantastic trade for women, and here’s why we think it’s the top choice. It’s a skill that combines precision, creativity, and problem-solving. Tilers transform spaces-think sleek bathroom walls or stylish kitchen floors-with results you can see instantly. The work is accessible for people of all builds.

We’ve trained women from all backgrounds, many with no prior experience, to become professional tilers in as little as 13 days. Our courses cover everything from cutting tiles to setting up a tiling business, and we’ve seen women go on to run successful companies with the skills they’ve learned. Tiling jobs pay well, typically £250–£400 per day once you’re established, and the demand for quality tilers is huge, especially for detailed work like herringbone patterns or wet room installations.

The beauty of tiling is its flexibility. You can work on small domestic projects or large commercial jobs, and the skills are transferable across the UK and beyond. 

2. Plumbing

Plumbing is another solid choice. It’s a high-demand trade with excellent earning potential, often £35,000-£50,000 a year for experienced plumbers. The work involves installing and repairing water systems, from fixing leaks to fitting bathrooms. Training typically takes 1-2 years through a college course or apprenticeship, and you’ll need to be comfortable with some physical tasks, like lifting pipes or working in tight spaces.

Plumbing can be a great fit for those who enjoy solving practical problems and don’t mind getting their hands dirty. The main downside is that it can involve messier jobs, like unblocking drains, and you might need to be on call for emergencies. Still, the variety and job security make it a strong contender.

3. Electrical Work

Electricians are always in demand, with salaries often hitting £40,000 or more after a few years. The work involves installing and maintaining electrical systems, from wiring homes to fixing complex circuits. Training takes around 2-3 years, often through an apprenticeship, and you’ll need to pass safety certifications like the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.

This trade suits women who enjoy technical challenges and have a good head for safety. It’s less physically demanding than some trades but requires strong focus and precision. The catch is the longer training period and the need to stay updated with regulations, but the payoff is a stable, well-paid career.

4. Carpentry

Carpentry is perfect for those who love working with their hands and creating things from scratch. Carpenters build everything from furniture to house frameworks, earning around £30,000-£45,000 once qualified. Training can take 1-2 years, often via college or an apprenticeship, and you’ll need a good eye for detail and some physical stamina.

Women in carpentry often find the creative side rewarding-there’s something special about turning raw wood into a finished piece. However, it can involve heavy lifting and working outdoors, which might not suit everyone. If you enjoy crafting and building, though, it’s a great option.

5. Painting and Decorating

Painting and decorating is a trade with a low barrier to entry, making it ideal for women looking to start quickly. You can learn the basics in a few weeks through short courses, and experienced painters can earn £25,000–£40,000 a year. The work involves painting walls, applying wallpaper, and sometimes minor repairs.

This trade is less technical than plumbing or electrical work, and it’s great for those who love aesthetics and transforming spaces. However, it can be repetitive, and you’ll need to be okay with working at heights or in dusty environments. It’s a good starting point if you’re new to trades.

Why Tiling Stands Out

While all these trades offer great opportunities, tiling has some unique advantages for women. First, the training is fast - the best quality tiling courses can get you job-ready in days, not years. Second, it’s a trade where finesse matters more than physical strength, levelling the playing field. You’ll learn to handle tools like tile cutters and trowels with ease, and our hands-on training ensures you’re confident from day one.

Tiling also offers flexibility. You can take on small jobs to fit around other commitments or scale up to bigger projects as your skills grow. The earning potential is strong, and with the UK’s construction boom, tilers are in short supply. Plus, there’s a real sense of pride in creating beautiful, lasting work, whether it’s a mosaic backsplash or a sleek wet room.

Getting Started

No matter which trade you choose, the key is finding quality training. We specialise in turning beginners into professional tilers with intensive, hands-on courses. Our Newport centre is purpose-built, and our tutors - led by an experienced tiler - guide you every step of the way. We also offer flexible payment options and help with accommodation for those travelling from afar.

Other trades like plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry often require longer training through colleges or apprenticeships, which can be found via local colleges or schemes like the UK’s National Apprenticeship Service. Whatever path you take, look for courses with strong reviews and practical focus.

At the end of the day, the best trade for you depends on your interests and goals. If you want a creative, flexible, and well-paid career with quick training, tiling is hard to beat. Plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and painting are also great options, each with its own rewards and challenges. The trades industry is wide open for women, and with the right skills, you can build a career that’s both fulfilling and financially rewarding. Ready to pick up a trowel? Check out our tiling courses and start your journey today!

‍