A new $5 million federal grant program aims to help more women break into industries like construction, manufacturing, and cybersecurity — fields that are growing fast but remain largely dominated by men.
With Houston booming in several of these industries, the funding could have a direct impact on women looking to enter skilled trades right here in our city.
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The U.S. Department of Labor announced the funding through the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grant program. It’s designed to support community-based organizations nationwide, with up to 14 groups set to receive grants.
Apprenticeship is a proven “earn-and-learn” training model that offers workers a pathway to the middle class and helps companies recruit, develop, and retain a highly skilled workforce, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
According to recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, women make up nearly half of the U.S. labor force but account for only about 15% of participants in Registered Apprenticeship Programs, a gap the WANTO program is designed to help close.
The goal? To recruit, train, and retain more women in apprenticeship programs that lead to high-paying, in-demand jobs, particularly in skilled trades where female representation remains low.
Why Houston could benefit
Here in Houston, construction and infrastructure jobs are booming. From new high-rises downtown to expanding highways and ongoing storm recovery projects, there’s a consistent demand for skilled labor. Yet, women still make up only a small fraction of the workforce on most job sites.
Judy Taylor, Project Manager for Frontier Custom Builders, is currently working on high-profile projects, including homes for Simone Biles. She says her perspective as a woman brings a unique attention to detail that makes a big difference in construction.
“Simone and I just hit it off right away. She knew I’d be pickier than most,” Taylor said. “Girls are known for those little details that guys sometimes forget — like where to place outlets for hair products at the vanity. We fine-tune things and make it perfect.”
That’s where programs like WANTO can make a real difference. The funding supports organizations that help women access hands-on training, apprenticeships, and long-term support to succeed in traditionally male-dominated industries.
For Houston women looking for stable, well-paying careers without needing a four-year degree, these opportunities could be life changing.
Room to grow
Bureau of Labor Statistics shows women make up just over 10% of the construction workforce nationally and many estimates put Houston’s numbers even lower. That means there’s a huge opportunity for growth.
The city is also a hub for cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing, two other fast-growing fields supported by the WANTO grants.
“Buyers want those fine details and to be picky… without being called picky,” Taylor added.
Taylor recalled a recent walk-through where the buyer didn’t put a single piece of blue tape because, as she joked, she was pickier than he was. This attention to detail, she believes, is exactly why more women in construction will be appreciated on job sites.
“Homeowners will appreciate having more women in construction. As more women enter the field, it’ll become more commonplace, and the pushback from guys [in the field],” Taylor said.
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U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer emphasized the administration’s workforce priorities with the announcement:
“Under President Trump’s leadership and our shared commitment to transparency, the department has been reviewing all taxpayer-funded grants to ensure they fulfill their intended purpose and help this Administration achieve our workforce goals,”
What happens next?
The Department of Labor is currently accepting applications from eligible organizations. If local groups in Houston receive funding, the city could soon see expanded training programs and support services aimed specifically at women entering high-demand fields.
Taylor shared how she personally overcame challenges in the male-dominated industry:
“It took a while to build trust and get respect from the tradesmen. They would automatically assume I worked in the office or accounting,” Taylor said. “But once they saw what I was capable of, I quickly became their favorite.” She smiled, adding with a laugh, “They call me the boss lady.”
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She also emphasized how valuable grants like WANTO could be for women entering the field now:
“These grants are great… I wish I had that kind of opportunity when I started,” Taylor said. “It would have helped tremendously, and I wouldn’t [have] student loan debt.”
Advice for the next generation
For women considering a career in construction, Taylor offers this advice:
“Don’t let a guy with a bad attitude sway you from doing something you’re passionate about,” Taylor said. “[In] a male dominated industry, put your foot down and show them what you’re capable of.”
How to get involved
Women interested in construction or tech careers can connect with local organizations offer valuable resources or apprenticeship opportunities:
