Nontraditional Careers

What is a Nontraditional Career?

Nontraditional occupations are jobs in which men or women comprise less than 25 percent of a field of work or occupation. Female Nontraditional careers are occupations in which less than 25 percent of individuals employed are female. Male Nontraditional careers are occupations in which less than 25 percent of the individuals employed are male.

Why choose a nontraditional career?

Nontraditional careers can mean higher wages, financial security, good benefits, demand for skilled workers, and freedom to pursue careers related to interests and abilities.

These occupations are considered nontraditional for men:

These occupations are considered nontraditional for women:

Administrative assistant
Childcare and education
Cosmetology
Dental assisting
Dental hygiene
Medical administrative secretary technology
Medical laboratory technician
Nursing
Pharmacy technology
Phlebotomy technician

Architectural technology
Auto body collision
Automotive service technology
Civil engineering
Computer programming
Computer and network technology
Computer network security
Construction electricity
Construction management
Criminal justice
Diesel equipment technology
Electrical line worker
Fire service preparation
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration
Marine engine technology
Mechanical design and detailing
Outdoor power equipment and snowmobile technology
Plumbing technology
Web development

More Resources:

For stories of local women in non-traditional careers please see the January 2016 issue of River Valley Women,“Do Different! Non-Traditional Careers for Women group encourages women to explore options outside the box.” Please click here to read the article.

FastTRACK Programs

FastTRACK Pathways to Healthcare Careers