Naomi Zermeno works as an Intermediate Welder at Freedman Seating after graduating from Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) in June 2024. Her journey into the male-dominated welding industry began with a chance viewing of an Instagram reel that sparked her interest in the craft.

Q: What drew you to welding as a career, and what brings you the most satisfaction in your work?

“I always knew I wanted to work with my hands, and as a woman, I thought, ‘Should I do nails? Should I do eyelashes?’ That was kind of the first girly thing to do. But I never felt like that was going to be it. I had seen welding once on an Instagram reel, and when I looked into classes, CWIT came up. I was super honest in my interview, saying that I didn’t know if I would like it. Then once I started, I felt like I could thrive, and the first time I did it, I knew this was my calling. It felt full circle. What drew me to welding is that I knew I always wanted to work with my hands. It felt badass to say, ‘Oh my God, you’re a welder.’

The most satisfaction comes from just knowing that I did it—that moment of self-accomplishment. Welding is basically like your own artwork—nothing really depends on how great you are, except for your own skill set. That gives me the highest self-esteem boost. Just knowing that I did it all on my own.”

Q: What’s been your biggest challenge in this field, and how did you overcome it? 

“Honestly, just being a woman. We’re occupying space in a male-dominated field, and that’s an extreme challenge. The industry as a whole is not very accepting of women. There’s always going to be people who don’t want you there just because you are a woman. I think the biggest thing that’s helped me stay calm is being selfish—selfish because I have to do it for myself. I have to prove this for myself and guide myself to know that if I continue to be my best self, nothing else, not being a woman or a minority, is going to stop me. It’s going to be my work that shines through. That’s really helped a lot, just focusing on myself.”

Q: What advice would you give to women considering a career in welding?

“Just do it like you mean it. Show up and show out. That’s always going to be my advice to anyone. As long as you have your heart and mind in the right place, I feel like you’re going to thrive, but you have to do it because you want it.”

Q: What part of CWIT’s Women in Welding program was most valuable?

“That the classes at CWIT are hands-on is the most valuable aspect. I also liked that we had a really small class. I felt attended to. Both of my instructors were always there for me. It felt nice to have their guidance throughout the program. I’m really grateful to have graduated from CWIT. It feels truly like a sisterhood. I feel like there’s always someone rooting for me.”