Photo Courtesy of: Photographer
Manuel Martinez

Satisfied with rewarding work.

Zakiyyah F. Askia realized her skills in the plumbing field at Chicago Women in Trades.

Chicago Women In Trades introduced me to a plethora of women thriving in the building trades, and provided the "I too can do this" validation and support that I needed to achieve and succeed in this non-traditional career industry as well.

It was January 2009 when I completed the CWIT’s' Technical Opportunities Pre-Apprenticeship Program. However, the recession had taken its toll on the economy, and work within the building trades had slowed to a halt. It would be another six years until I began my journey as an apprentice plumber.

I am super satisfied with my chosen career path. It is very empowering to be able to troubleshoot and repair plumbing systems, and to read and interpret blueprints for plumbing designs. In plumbing, the physical work can be challenging, but the completed craftsmanship and essential practicality of it is truly rewarding. My ultimate career goal is to become a licensed Master plumber.