History of Women in Electric
While electricity has always existed, the theory behind it was established long before the profession of electrician. Engineers studied these theories, advancing the electrical world, one such pioneer being Edith Clarke. Clarke was the first woman in the United States to be professionally employed as an electrical engineer and later became the nation’s first female professor of electrical engineering.
Her most notable invention, the Clarke calculator, revolutionized the field by solving equations involving hyperbolic functions ten times faster than previous methods. After a teaching stint at Constantinople Women’s College in Turkey, she returned to the U.S. and secured a position at General Electric, making history as the first female electrical engineer at the company.
Clarke’s contributions extended to major infrastructure projects, including the design and construction of hydroelectric dams such as the Hoover Dam. In her later years, she became the first female engineering professor at the University of Texas at Austin, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of electrical engineering.
Women at Nardone
The women at Nardone Electrical play a crucial role in our success. We sat down with some of the women of Nardone to discuss what being a woman in construction means to them.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Megan – “Two things stand out. First, building relationships with people from all backgrounds—whether it’s electricians, engineers, or vendors. Working together to get the job done makes me feel like part of a team. Second, seeing a project come to life! When I walk into a mall and realize I purchased all the lights, gear, and security for it, it’s pretty cool to think, ‘I helped make this happen!”
What advice would you give young women considering a career in construction?
Megan – “We need more of you! This is a male-dominated field, but we’re making strides. If I could go back, I’d attend a vocational school to learn a trade. Not only does it save money on home projects, but it builds self-confidence and independence—something you can pass on to other women in your life. Also, speak up! Ask questions, share your thoughts, and stay honest. In this industry, trust and communication go a long way.”
What do you wish more people understood about being a woman in the electrical trade?
Aurelia – I wish more people understood the challenges women face in the electrical trade, like overcoming stereotypes and biases. But women bring unique skills and perspectives that really benefit the industry.
Where do you see yourself in five to ten years? Do you want to mentor other women?
Aurelia – In five to ten years, I see myself in a more advanced role, maybe continuing with this trade or following a different path. It’s super important to support each other and help more women get into the trade.
What inspired you to pursue a career in electrical?
Juliany – I didn’t initially enroll in trade school with the intention of pursuing a blue-collar trade. However, after wiring a simple light during one of my classes, I was immediately captivated by the work. I found that figuring out how to wire lights and other devices is akin to solving a complex puzzle, and seeing it power on is like placing the final piece.
What do you wish more people understood about being a woman in the electrical trade?
Juliany – One thing I wish others understood about being a woman in the trade is that I possess the same physical capabilities as my male counterparts. While I may be smaller in size, my strength is formidable, nonetheless.
Where do you see yourself in five to ten years? Do you want to mentor other women?
Juliany – In the next five to ten years, I envision myself being fully licensed in the trade and working towards acquiring a diverse set of skills, including fire alarm systems, data wiring, and more. And I would love to mentor other women in the trade, we always need more.