Why More Women Should Consider a Career in the Electrical Industry
The demand for skilled electricians is growing rapidly — but women remain significantly underrepresented in the trade. In fact, only around 3% of the UK’s electrical workforce is female, despite the many opportunities and career benefits the sector offers. At Optima Electrical Training, we believe now is the time for change.
According to industry data, the UK is facing a shortfall of nearly 30,000 electricians by 2030. This growing demand is fuelled by the need for EV charging points, solar panel systems, battery storage, and low-carbon home upgrades — all part of the government’s net-zero targets.
But despite this urgent need, women still make up just a fraction of qualified electricians. In 2021, there were only 12,700 female electricians in the UK, out of more than 400,000 registered in the trade.
Source: ECDA
This presents a massive opportunity for women to enter a secure, flexible, and well-paid profession with real long-term prospects.
Why Women Are Needed in the Trade
There are several key reasons why more women are not only welcome — but essential — to the future of the electrical industry:
Client preference: Many customers, particularly women or those from religious backgrounds, prefer female professionals in their homes. This is especially true for solo or elderly clients, where a female electrician may feel safer or more comfortable.
Trust & safety: Studies show that 41% of UK homeowners feel safer hiring a female tradesperson.
Source: OnBuy.com SurveyDiversity improves quality: A more balanced, inclusive workforce brings broader perspectives, higher customer satisfaction, and innovation to the trade.
Real Flexibility, Real Earning Potential
Electricians enjoy varied working environments — from domestic installations and commercial fitouts to EV charging point set-ups and solar technology. Many also become self-employed or start their own businesses, giving them full control over their hours and income.
Average UK electrician salary: £38,000 – £45,000+
Self-employed earnings: Often higher depending on workload and region
Growth potential: Continual demand as technology evolves
There’s also flexibility to work part-time, full-time or freelance, depending on your lifestyle and commitments — making it ideal for parents or those seeking work-life balance.
Support Is Growing
Organisations like the Women’s Engineering Society and the Electrical Association for Women actively support females entering the electrical trade, with networks, mentoring, and advice on navigating a male-dominated sector.
At Optima, we’ve proudly supported many women retraining from a range of backgrounds — from care and education to admin and retail — and helping them gain qualifications like:
Level 2 & 3 Diplomas in Electrical Installations (C&G 2365)
18th Edition Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382)
Inspection & Testing (C&G 2391)
It’s Time to Reconsider
If you’ve never seen yourself as “the type” to be an electrician, it might be time to rethink. The industry is evolving, and there’s never been a better moment to join it.
Whether you're starting fresh or looking to switch careers, training as an electrician offers:
✅ A nationally recognised, respected trade
✅ Freedom to work how and where you want
✅ Job security in a high-demand sector
✅ An empowering, practical skillset for life
Thinking of Becoming a Qualified Electrician?
If you're interested in learning a skilled trade and want to be part of the solution, why not train to become a certified professional?
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your qualifications, our accredited training programmes will give you the knowledge, confidence, and credentials to meet new building standards and market demand.
✅ Hands-on training
✅ Industry-recognised certifications
✅ Expert instructors with real-world experience
Contact us today to embark on your training journey.
Contact us: Request Information
Email: info@optima-ect.com
Freephone +44 800 0371572