She Was Told to College was the Only Way. She Chose Welding Instead. | WeldHer Workshops

What if the career that changes your life is the one nobody ever told you about?For Letty Bejarano and Rachel Miller, welding wasn't part of the plan. One followed the traditional path through college before realizing success on paper didn't feel like fulfillment. The other stumbled into a welding shop and instantly knew she had found where she belonged. Together, they turned those unexpected journeys into WeldHer Workshops, a movement that's introducing more women to careers they never imagined possible.In this episode of Skilled Nation, they share the stories behind the sparks. From career pivots and self-doubt to building confidence with a welding hood for the first time, this conversation explores what it really takes to break into one of America's most in-demand industries. Along the way, they open up about mentorship, workplace culture, mental health in the trades, and why the biggest barrier isn't ability. It's awareness.Whether you're a student wondering what comes after high school, a parent helping your child explore career options, or someone looking for a fresh start without taking on years of student debt, this episode may change the way you think about skilled trades.In this episode:Why welding became a life-changing career for two women who never planned on itWhat more people need to know about apprenticeships and skilled tradesThe biggest myths keeping women out of welding and constructionHow WeldHer Workshops is opening doors for the next generationThe truth about workplace culture, confidence, and belongingWhy AI isn't replacing skilled trades anytime soonHow mentorship and community can transform careersIf you've ever wondered whether college is the only path to success, or if there's a career out there you've never considered, this conversation is for you.Subscribe to Skilled Nation for conversations with the people building America's future through welding, electrical, HVAC, construction, manufacturing, and the skilled trades.#SkilledNation #WomenInWelding #Welding #SkilledTrades #WomenInTrades #Apprenticeship #CareerChange #TradeSchool #Construction #Manufacturing #BlueCollar #WorkforceDevelopment #FutureOfWork #CareerGrowth #UnionApprenticeship #WeldHer #JimmyRhoades