A WOMAN has revealed she puts in almost £60,000 a year for a grueling job that some would hate – but which makes her stronger.
Elizabeth is a Gen Z welder who chose a career in commerce over a nine-to-five corporate job.
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When Elizabeth was 18, she discovered a beginners course for young women working in the trades and never looked back.
The almost four-month course teaches trading basics, such as automotive, hydraulics and carpentry.
But Elizabeth was captivated by the art of welding.
Speaking to the Business Insider, She said: “There are many different types of welding, but at its basic level, it’s about fusing two metals with a hot torch.
“I was drawn to that hot, difficult aspect, of constantly having your head down in the heat.
“It’s hard work and requires you to be precise – that kind of intensity was something I looked for in a job.”
The now 23-year-old and her partner live in a rooftop tent in Alberta, Canada, allowing them to fulfill many people’s dream of working and living outdoors.
By doing this, they get to keep what is called a Living Allowance, which is a tax-free daily amount of up to £158.
For other traders, this money would be spent on accommodation – but the couple can pocket theirs.
Not only is welding a well-paying profession suited to the outdoor lifestyle, Elizabeth also said “it’s great for the body.”
She said: “I’m killing my body every day, but it’s worth it because welders make crazy money and I’m getting ripped off for it.
“I’m constantly moving and lifting, so my abs are getting more defined and my butt is getting bigger.
“I’m covered in bruises and scrapes from work – I’m definitely pretty beat up. But it makes me super strong, and working outdoors is a real plus.”
While Elizabeth has no complaints about the grueling 10-hour days and full work week, she explained how being a woman in the industry has been a big issue.
She said: “I have had male co-workers shout at me and belittle me at work, and few procedures exist to prevent this.
“You just need to make sure you have a good supervisor who knows you work hard and respects you.”
In 2020, female welders made up just a shocking 3.8% of the industry, Gray reports.
But Elizabeth spreads the word to other women about welding on TikTok, amassing thousands of followers and inspiring more people to get into the industry.
Discussing her future in the industry, she said: “My dream would be to own a business focused on attracting women into the industry.
“My experiences in the industry have shown me how necessary it is to help reshape this industry to include more women.”
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This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
