Assembly Resolution No. 181

BY: M. of A. Walsh

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
March 2025, as Women in the Trades Month in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official months dedicated to raising awareness of serious issues
impacting the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize
Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 2025, as Women in the Trades
Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of
National Women in the Trades Month; and

WHEREAS, Women in the Trades Month, celebrated each year in March,
serves as a recognition of the vital contributions that women make in
industries historically dominated by men; and

WHEREAS, This vital day of recognition highlights the achievements,
challenges, and advancements women face as they break barriers and build
careers in skilled trades such as construction, plumbing, electrical
work, carpentry, and welding; and

WHEREAS, According to a 2021 report by the Institute for Women's
Policy Research which looked at the national picture, in 2020, over
300,000 women-the largest number ever-worked in construction
occupations, reflecting growth even during the COVID-19 pandemic;
however, women remain highly underrepresented in the trades, accounting
for just 4% of all workers in construction occupations; and

WHEREAS, Recruitment and retention of a labor force for the trades
is always a problem, incentivizing more women to join these fields helps
to fill gaps in the workforce; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, women have increasingly entered these
fields, proving that their skills and talents are just as valuable and
necessary as their male counterparts; despite the ongoing gender
disparity in these trades, the movement toward greater representation
has gained momentum; today, women not only work in these sectors but
also lead initiatives to mentor others, advocate for fair pay, and
promote workplace equality; and

WHEREAS, Women in the trades often face unique challenges, including
gender stereotypes, a lack of female role models, and workplace
discrimination; many have overcome these barriers through resilience and
dedication, becoming leaders and trailblazers in their fields; and

WHEREAS, Programs and initiatives dedicated to supporting women in
these industries have made significant progress, offering scholarships,
networking opportunities, and training programs to foster the growth of
women in skilled labor; and

WHEREAS, Celebrating Women in the Trades Month is an essential
reminder of the need for inclusivity and equal opportunities; and


WHEREAS, By recognizing women's contributions to the trades, society
acknowledges that skilled labor is not defined by gender, and both men
and women play equally important roles in shaping industries that build,
maintain, and improve communities; as the movement continues to grow,
the next generation of women in the trades is poised to change the face
of these industries for good; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 2025, as Women in
the Trades Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.