Top 5 Certifications Every Woman in the Trades Should Know About

Top 5 Certifications Every Woman in the Trades Should Know About

By Konstellation — Built to Fit. Made to Empower.

If you’re a woman breaking barriers in the trades, you're already a force. But whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your skills, certifications can be a powerful way to open doors, boost credibility, and increase pay.

At Konstellation, we design tradeswear that works with your body and for your career. Today, we’re spotlighting five certifications that can help you grow in the industry — and command the respect (and paycheck) you deserve.

1. OSHA 10 or 30 (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

Why it matters:
This certification is often the first step in any skilled trade. The OSHA 10 (basic) or 30 (supervisory) courses teach vital jobsite safety practices that protect you and your crew.

Ideal for:
All trades — carpentry, plumbing, electrical, construction, HVAC, etc.

💪 Konstellation tip: Wearing proper PPE starts with good tradeswear. Our reinforced pieces are OSHA-aware and designed for women's bodies.

2. NCCER Certification (National Center for Construction Education and Research)

Why it matters:
This nationally recognized credential shows employers that you have standardized, skill-based training in areas like carpentry, welding, electrical, and more.

Ideal for:
Women looking to build a career path in the trades with stackable credentials.

Bonus: Some programs offer female-focused mentorship and hands-on training.

3. EPA 608 Certification (for HVAC Techs)

Why it matters:
If you work with refrigeration or air conditioning systems, the EPA requires this certification to legally handle refrigerants.

Ideal for:
HVAC techs and those interested in environmental tech or green energy.

🔧 Konstellation insight: This certification opens doors to commercial contracts and government work — higher pay and more responsibility.

4. Journeyman or Apprentice Licensure (State-Specific)

Why it matters:
Most trades require a state-issued license to practice professionally. The journey from apprentice to journeyman involves classroom hours, jobsite training, and an exam.

Ideal for:
Electricians, plumbers, pipefitters, and other skilled trades.

Pro tip: Each state has different requirements — check with your local licensing board.

5. CPR and First Aid Certification

Why it matters:
Jobsites can be dangerous. CPR and First Aid training not only protect your crew, but also show leadership and responsibility.

Ideal for:
Every tradeswoman. This can even be a requirement on certain sites or contracts.

👷♀️ Konstellation culture: Safety isn’t just about hard hats — it’s about showing up prepared, from your gear to your knowledge.

Why Certifications Matter

The trades are still a male-dominated field, but women are rapidly changing that. Certifications give you leverage. They show you’re serious, trained, and ready to lead.

And at Konstellation, we’re here to support that journey with gear that fits — in more ways than one.

Stay Connected

Follow us on TikTok@konstellation7
Follow us on IG@konstellationworkwear

Let’s build this future — together.


Back to blog