Female Ironworker in California: Shattering Gender Stereotypes in Construction
In the sprawling landscape of California’s construction industry, where the clang of metal against metal echoes through the air, Rocio Campos stands out as a beacon of resilience and determination. Hailing from Los Angeles County, this single mother of two has defied the odds to pursue a career in ironworking, a field dominated by men. Out of almost 2,500 iron and steel worker apprentices in the state, only 70 are women. Campos is one of them, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes with every weld she makes.
A Long and Winding Road to Ironworking
Campos’ journey to becoming an ironworker was far from straightforward. She navigated a maze of career paths, from working on an ambulance crew to dabbling in drafting and design, and even studying criminal justice—all in pursuit of providing for her family. It was not until she stumbled upon a welding class at Antelope Valley College in Lancaster that she discovered her passion for welding. With grit and determination, she honed her skills by attending classes during the week and practicing welding on Saturdays.
It was during these weekend sessions that Campos caught the eye of an instructor from the Ironworkers Local 433 union. Impressed by her dedication and talent, the instructor took Campos under his wing and signed her on as an apprentice. However, the road to becoming a certified tradesperson was arduous, requiring four more years of intense coursework, homework, full-time work, and regular certification tests. Despite the challenges, Campos persevered, driven by a deep desire to provide for her family and carve out a place for herself in a male-dominated industry.
Diversifying the Construction Landscape
For Campos, ironworking is not just a job—it is a source of creativity and financial stability. At 36 years old, she finds fulfillment in her work and plans to further her education to advance in the construction industry. Reflecting on her journey, Campos emphasizes the need for greater outreach and inclusivity in the construction sector to make it more accessible to women and other underrepresented groups.
In a candid conversation about her career path, Campos sheds light on the realities of being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. From facing skepticism about her abilities due to her petite stature to navigating the complexities of certification processes, Campos has had to overcome numerous obstacles to establish herself as a respected tradesperson. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to her craft and her determination to succeed.
Navigating the Challenges of Ironworking
As a woman in a field where gender norms are deeply entrenched, Campos has had to navigate a multitude of challenges. From proving her skills on the job site to setting clear boundaries with colleagues, she has had to work twice as hard to earn the respect of her peers. Despite facing instances of discrimination and skepticism, Campos remains undeterred, driven by a passion for her work and a commitment to breaking down barriers for future generations of women in construction.
Looking ahead, Campos envisions a future where women in construction are not just accepted but celebrated for their contributions. With plans to continue her education and pursue higher-level certifications, she is determined to carve out a path to success that transcends traditional gender roles. As she reflects on her journey as an ironworker, Campos offers a message of hope and resilience to aspiring women in the construction industry: “Just be professional, set boundaries, and never give up on your dreams.”
As the sun sets on another day at the construction site, Campos dons her helmet and gears up for another night shift. With each spark of the welding torch, she defies expectations and paves the way for a more inclusive and diverse construction industry. In her hands, steel transforms into art, and barriers crumble beneath her unwavering resolve. Rocio Campos is not just an ironworker—she is a trailblazer, a symbol of courage and perseverance in a world where strength knows no gender.
