Her Story
About Chantel
Chantel Richard is an accomplished electrical professional with more than 26 years of experience in electrical construction and fire alarm systems. Inspired by her father, who worked as an electrician, she began exploring the trade at approximately 13 years old and later attended electrical trade school, graduating among the top 10% of her class and at the top of her shop. She continued her education through I.B.E.W. Local 103, completing telecommunications and electrical programs, and earned additional infrared certification and training. Over the course of her career, she progressed into leadership and has served as an Electrical Foreman since 2018, building extensive expertise in fire alarm installation, troubleshooting, project drawings, RFIs, crew management, and coordination with other trades.
In her professional role, Chantel is known for her technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and hands-on leadership. Her responsibilities include setting up crews, managing projects, reviewing drawings, troubleshooting complex electrical and fire alarm issues, and coordinating work with HVAC, elevator, lighting, sprinkler, and other construction teams. After spending 15 years with her previous company, she began a new position in June 2026, viewing the transition as an opportunity for continued professional growth. As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Chantel has established herself as a trailblazer who demonstrates that success in the trades is driven by knowledge, preparation, persistence, and the ability to understand how systems work—not simply physical strength.
Beyond her technical career, Chantel is passionate about creating opportunities for women in the skilled trades and mentoring younger women who are considering careers in construction and electrical work. She encourages aspiring tradeswomen to approach challenging technical tasks one step at a time and to have confidence in their ability to learn and succeed. A member of organizations including I.B.E.W. Local 103 and the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), she is committed to leading by example and showing the next generation what is possible. As a mother of two, Chantel also values family and balance, while enjoying crafting and playing on a women's softball team. Looking ahead, she hopes to become a Project Manager and eventually transition into consulting, using her decades of field experience to guide projects and help others build successful careers in the trades.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Chantel
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance, and continuous learning. I learn from everyone and approach challenges with strong problem-solving and communication skills. “I can’t do it” has never been part of my vocabulary—I always find a way forward.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to never stop learning, embrace challenges, and never let obstacles or other people’s expectations limit what I can accomplish.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to give your best effort and take challenges one step at a time. Don’t let the idea of a male-dominated field limit you—this work takes knowledge, skill, and determination, not just physical strength. Learn the technical side, apply yourself, and believe in what you can accomplish.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is succeeding as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. However, I see great opportunities for women to enter the skilled trades and grow into leadership roles. My goal is to become a Project Manager and eventually move into consulting, using my field experience to help guide projects and others in the industry.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are dedication, perseverance, and leading by example. I want to be a role model for women in the trades, mentor younger women, and show that we can succeed in this industry. I believe in never giving up before giving something my best effort.
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