How Women Helped Shape the Plumbing Industry

The plumbing industry is very male-dominated and always has been. However, over the course of many years, women have been building a plumbing legacy of their own. 

There aren’t too many women in the industry at the moment, but that number is steadily increasing. The plumbing industry is rapidly growing as well, leaving room for more women to obtain a certificate in the field. Most plumbing companies offer on-the-job training, which means women won't need a degree and years of tuition debt to do a job they love. 

The Lillian Ann Baumbach Legacy

Lillian Ann Baumbach was the first woman to obtain her master plumber's license in the 1950s. She grew up working with her father for his plumbing company and became known as the "Pretty Plumber." When people had gotten word that she became a master plumber, she began to receive letters from all over the globe addressed to "The Pretty Plumber." She then became the pen pal to over 250 men who asked for pictures, letters, and even her hand in marriage. 

She was also on two television shows, was a cover girl for a national plumbing magazine, the official pin-up girl for the Korean War, and also did a radio broadcast. 

The Formation of the Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers

The Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers was created in the early 1900s. It had begun as a club for the wives of plumbers during the National Association of Plumbers' meetings. These women met to go shopping, go on car rides, and go dining, but it eventually turned into an activist group. 

They lobbied for environmental and sanitation issues. Additionally, they lobbied for health and labor laws that focused on improving the gas station restrooms at Texaco gas stations. 

Today's Female Plumbers

Today, more and more women are joining the plumbing industry, but it's still a small percentage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported it to be only around 2.5%. 

However, there are clear advantages. Women generally have better communication skills than men, which makes them an ideal choice in a profession that involves a lot of talking and communication with customers. It's people like Lillian Ann Baumbach who really opened a door for women who want to become plumbers. Not only is it a beneficial career choice, but it's also a great opportunity to show men that women are capable of the same work as them.

About Allens Plumbing

Allens Plumbing is a reputable plumbing service in Aiea, HI. They have been in business since 1982 and offer a variety of convenient services, including same-day service, advanced technology, website coupons, and personal attention. Contact them for reliable plumbing service from expert contractors. 

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