Shocking Demand Exposed: Find Out the Disturbing Request Made to This 22-Year-Old Tradie!
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In an industry where the echo of traditional gender roles often drowns out the clang of metal and the whir of power tools, one young Australian is challenging the status quo with her wrench and plunger in hand. Lainie Paterson, a 22-year-old qualified plumber, is breaking down barriers and confronting the grim reality of sexism on the job.
Lainie's journey into the world of plumbing wasn't a conventional one. Leaving school in Year 11, she followed her passion for the great outdoors and a desire to work alongside her father, who had been her role model on construction sites throughout her childhood. But despite her qualifications and experience, Lainie often faces a disheartening request from clients: 'Bring one of the boys out.'
This phrase, which she hears 'all the time,' is a stark reminder that some still doubt her capabilities simply because she is a woman. 'You can't lift that you're a chick,' or 'Maybe you should bring one of the boys out,' are comments that Lainie has had to confront head-on, challenging the outdated notion that physical strength and skill are exclusive to men.
The young tradie's response to such sexism is not just verbal; it's in the quality of her work and the strength she brings to every job. Lainie admits that plumbing requires significant physical strength, and she's more than up to the task. Yet, she still encounters clients who would rather not have her in their homes due to their biases against female tradies.
Despite these challenges, Lainie has noticed a positive shift in attitudes over the past five years. The surprise and sexism she once faced regularly are slowly diminishing, indicating a change in societal perceptions of women in trades.
Lainie's love for plumbing is rooted in her upbringing and her natural inclination towards problem-solving and collaboration. She thrives on the variety each new day brings, the social aspect of working with other tradies, and the satisfaction of finding solutions to complex issues.
However, the path hasn't been without its obstacles. Catcalls, unwarranted photos, and outright shock are still part of her daily experience. But Lainie chooses to focus on the supportive men in the industry who encourage and respect her work, rather than the few who try to undermine her.
Her resilience and passion for her craft have led her to tune out negativity and focus on her love for the job. 'I like just doing something very different every day. You’ve always got a problem to solve, and it is quite social,' she says, reflecting on the dynamic nature of her work.
The pride her father feels is a testament to her success and determination. Working alongside him for the first time, as he usually works offshore, has been a rewarding experience for Lainie, strengthening their bond and allowing her to share her achievements with her 'best mate.'
Lainie's story doesn't end with overcoming sexism; it's also about her entrepreneurial spirit. She recently started her own plumbing business and has been met with a busy schedule, a sign of her growing reputation and the demand for her expertise. A unique advantage she's found is the trust and comfort she offers to certain demographics, such as single women and the elderly, who prefer a female tradie in their homes.
Lainie's experience is a powerful reminder that skill and professionalism know no gender. Her story is one of triumph over adversity, and her success is paving the way for future generations of women in trades. As she continues to build her business and break down barriers, Lainie Paterson stands as a beacon of change in a male-dominated industry, proving that the true measure of a tradie lies in their work, not their gender.
Credit: TikTok
Credit: TikTok
Have you or someone you know faced similar challenges in your profession? Share your experiences with us in the comments below, and let's celebrate the individuals who are reshaping our perceptions of the workforce.
Lainie's journey into the world of plumbing wasn't a conventional one. Leaving school in Year 11, she followed her passion for the great outdoors and a desire to work alongside her father, who had been her role model on construction sites throughout her childhood. But despite her qualifications and experience, Lainie often faces a disheartening request from clients: 'Bring one of the boys out.'
Sexism was encountered by 22-year-old plumber Lainie Paterson, with clients doubting her abilities due to her gender. Credit: @plumber_gal / TikTok
This phrase, which she hears 'all the time,' is a stark reminder that some still doubt her capabilities simply because she is a woman. 'You can't lift that you're a chick,' or 'Maybe you should bring one of the boys out,' are comments that Lainie has had to confront head-on, challenging the outdated notion that physical strength and skill are exclusive to men.
The young tradie's response to such sexism is not just verbal; it's in the quality of her work and the strength she brings to every job. Lainie admits that plumbing requires significant physical strength, and she's more than up to the task. Yet, she still encounters clients who would rather not have her in their homes due to their biases against female tradies.
Despite these challenges, Lainie has noticed a positive shift in attitudes over the past five years. The surprise and sexism she once faced regularly are slowly diminishing, indicating a change in societal perceptions of women in trades.
Lainie's love for plumbing is rooted in her upbringing and her natural inclination towards problem-solving and collaboration. She thrives on the variety each new day brings, the social aspect of working with other tradies, and the satisfaction of finding solutions to complex issues.
However, the path hasn't been without its obstacles. Catcalls, unwarranted photos, and outright shock are still part of her daily experience. But Lainie chooses to focus on the supportive men in the industry who encourage and respect her work, rather than the few who try to undermine her.
Her resilience and passion for her craft have led her to tune out negativity and focus on her love for the job. 'I like just doing something very different every day. You’ve always got a problem to solve, and it is quite social,' she says, reflecting on the dynamic nature of her work.
The pride her father feels is a testament to her success and determination. Working alongside him for the first time, as he usually works offshore, has been a rewarding experience for Lainie, strengthening their bond and allowing her to share her achievements with her 'best mate.'
Lainie's story doesn't end with overcoming sexism; it's also about her entrepreneurial spirit. She recently started her own plumbing business and has been met with a busy schedule, a sign of her growing reputation and the demand for her expertise. A unique advantage she's found is the trust and comfort she offers to certain demographics, such as single women and the elderly, who prefer a female tradie in their homes.
Lainie's experience is a powerful reminder that skill and professionalism know no gender. Her story is one of triumph over adversity, and her success is paving the way for future generations of women in trades. As she continues to build her business and break down barriers, Lainie Paterson stands as a beacon of change in a male-dominated industry, proving that the true measure of a tradie lies in their work, not their gender.
Credit: TikTok
Credit: TikTok
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