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Career choices do not need to be limited to stereo-types or preconceived notions of what qualifies as “women’s work” or “men’s work”; few jobs have requirements that limit employment to one gender. However, some occupations have traditionally been filled by one gender and currently have fewer than 25% of the opposite gender and is therefore considered non-traditional for that 25%--examples would be female welder or male nurses.
Deciding on a career should include many factors—skills, interests, values, physical demands, required training or education, salary, benefits—to name a few. When looking at career options, finding rewarding and interesting jobs may include non-traditional career paths. Those women who prefer physically active or outdoor work should explore the trades or technical occupations and those men who want to use social and nurturing skills should research health care or social services as possible options. Research confirms that long term job satisfaction is based on finding the best match with your particular interests, not choosing careers based on gender stereotypes.
The Career Technical Education (CTE) programs offered at MPC can provide non-traditional opportunities for men and women. According the U.S. Department of Labor, chef, firefighter, police and auto mechanics are currently listed as non-traditional for women. Nurse, dental assistant, medical assistant, and child care worker are non-traditional for men. |