Standing Together for Safety and Solidarity
The trades can be rewarding, challenging, and empowering, but they can also be dangerous, especially for women navigating male-dominated environments. The tragic story of Amber Czech, a 20-year-old welder, is a sobering reminder of why we must stand together, look out for one another, and demand safer workplaces for all tradeswomen.
Remembering Amber Czech
Amber Czech had recently completed a 10-month welding program and was beginning her career in the trades. She was dedicated, skilled, and ambitious, a young woman stepping into a field she loved. Tragically, in November 2025, Amber was violently attacked and killed at her workplace. Her story shocked the industry and sent waves through the trades community.
Her death is heartbreaking, but it also highlights a critical truth: workplace safety for women is not optional.
Why We Need Solidarity
Too often, women in trades experience isolation, subtle harassment, or outright hostility. Being one of the few women on a job site can feel lonely, and, as Amber’s story shows, this can sometimes have devastating consequences.
Solidarity is our strongest tool:
Show up together: The more women present, the safer and more empowered we all are.
Support one another: Mentorship, reporting unsafe behavior, and speaking up are acts of strength.
Demand change: Advocate for stronger workplace protections, inclusive culture, and accountability for harassment or violence.
Amber’s story reminds us that being a tradeswoman should never mean being alone or vulnerable. Our safety, voices, and visibility matter.
Taking Action
As tradeswomen, we have the power to create safer, more supportive workplaces:
Build networks on job sites and through professional organizations like NAWIC.
Speak up when harassment or unsafe behavior occurs.
Mentor and support younger tradeswomen entering the field.
Advocate for structural safety measures and zero-tolerance policies.
Standing together doesn’t just protect us, it ensures the next generation of tradeswomen can thrive without fear.
Final Thoughts
Amber Czech’s story is tragic, but it also serves as a rallying cry. We cannot allow solitude, intimidation, or fear to drive women away from the trades. By showing up in numbers, supporting one another, and demanding safe, respectful workplaces, we honor Amber’s memory and ensure that no woman has to face what she faced alone.
Together, we are stronger. Together, we are safer. Together, we can change the culture of the trades, one woman at a time.