Debra Richards, M.Ed.

I attribute my success to a lifelong commitment to the skilled trades and to helping others build meaningful careers in this industry. As an Instructional Chair and Journeyman Steam Fitter at Milwaukee Area Technical College, I have the privilege of blending classroom instruction, hands-on training, and program leadership to prepare the next generation of tradespeople in welding, HVAC, and mechanical systems. With 39 years of experience in the trades, I’ve witnessed tremendous change. When I first started, there were very few women in the field — I was among the first in my local union. Over the decades, I’ve seen not only the industry evolve but also the growing representation and impact of women within it. My proudest achievements come from my students’ success. Watching them go on to run job sites, manage crews, and support their own families is incredibly rewarding. One of the most memorable moments in my career was when a former student recognized me years later while traveling out of state and shared that my encouragement had kept them in the trade. Moments like that remind me why I love teaching and why I remain passionate about this work.

The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my father, who was a tremendous influence in my life. He worked with his hands and taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and problem-solving. From a young age, he showed me that if something needs fixing, you don’t wait — you figure it out. That lesson has guided me throughout my career in the trades and continues to shape how I approach teaching and mentoring my students today.

My advice to young women entering the trades is simple: show up, stay consistent, and never let intimidation steer you off course — you belong here. Early in my career, my mentors were senior tradesmen who didn’t treat me differently because I was a woman; they held me to the same standards of quality and precision as everyone else. Later, through my involvement with organizations like the United Association of Pipe Fitters and Plumbers and the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES), I found mentors who helped me recognize the importance of leadership and outreach. Their support taught me that the best way to honor the people who helped you is to pay it forward. Learn from everyone you meet, maintain high standards, and take pride in your work — every challenge you face becomes part of the strong foundation you’re building for your success.

The biggest challenge in the skilled trades today is the decline in younger generations pursuing these careers. There’s a widespread misconception that success only comes from earning a four-year degree, when in reality, the trades offer exceptional opportunities — competitive income, job stability, and a deep sense of pride in building and maintaining the systems our communities depend on. At the same time, this challenge creates an incredible opportunity: to rebrand and reintroduce the trades to a new generation. We have the chance to show young people that these careers are not only essential but also creative, rewarding, and accessible to everyone — regardless of gender, background, or experience. By promoting education, mentorship, and visibility, we can inspire the next wave of skilled professionals who will carry the industry forward.

Perseverance and adaptability are the values that guide me both professionally and personally. The trades demand both — you have to show up every day, stay teachable, and work through challenges with determination. I’ve learned that success in this field isn’t just about skill; it’s about resilience and the willingness to keep learning. I’ve never been afraid to embrace something new, whether it’s emerging technology, updated teaching methods, or changing industry regulations. That commitment to growth has been the constant thread throughout my career and continues to shape how I lead, teach, and approach every new opportunity.