The skilled trades have long been considered male-dominated industries, but that reality has gradually begun to shift as more women step into leadership roles and technical careers. Michelle Glasson, a franchise owner with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Levittown, Pennsylvania, entered the home services industry through a family business and developed a passion for leading a strong team.

“My journey into the home services industry really started when I started dating my now-husband, who owned a small plumbing company, and I felt a passion for family business and entrepreneurship,” she said. “I’ve always been drawn to businesses that serve the community and provide real value to people’s everyday lives.”

As Glasson became more involved in the day-to-day operations of the company, she learned every part of the business, from customer service to leadership and operations. She soon discovered that home services is an industry where the work you do genuinely matters, and over time, Glasson became focused on building a strong team and creating a workplace culture where employees could grow professionally.

Leading in a Male-Dominated Industry

When Glasson first entered the trades, the experience came with its share of challenges. The plumbing industry has historically had fewer women in leadership positions, and early perceptions were not always encouraging.

“In the very beginning, it was both challenging and, for the most part, laughed at. However, through the years it has proven to be incredibly rewarding,” she said. “The skilled trades have traditionally been male-dominated, but I believe that strong leadership, clear communication and respect for the people around you matter more than anything else.”

Encouraging More Women to Enter the Trades

Glasson believes that women bring valuable leadership qualities to skilled trade businesses, such as a strong sense of communication, organization and emotional intelligence. She found that these qualities are incredibly valuable when managing teams and building relationships with customers.

She also encourages women who may be considering careers in the trades or franchise ownership not to be intimidated by outdated perceptions.

“My biggest advice would be to believe in yourself and don’t hold back,” Glasson said. “And don’t allow the perception that a female could never effectively have a career in the skilled trades. That is just false.”

As Glasson’s Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchise continues to expand, she stays focused on leading her team well and making sure customers receive dependable service while continuing to support the employees who help the business succeed.

“What started as an opportunity for my husband and I to grow the business that he already had quickly turned into a passion for creating a strong team, building a positive culture and providing reliable service to the community we serve,” Glasson said.

To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/benjamin-franklin-plumbing. 

The skilled trades have long been considered male-dominated industries, but that reality has gradually begun to shift as more women step into leadership roles and technical careers. Michelle Glasson, a franchise owner with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Levittown, Pennsylvania, entered the home services industry through a family business and developed a passion for leading a strong team.

“My journey into the home services industry really started when I started dating my now-husband, who owned a small plumbing company, and I felt a passion for family business and entrepreneurship,” she said. “I’ve always been drawn to businesses that serve the community and provide real value to people’s everyday lives.”

As Glasson became more involved in the day-to-day operations of the company, she learned every part of the business, from customer service to leadership and operations. She soon discovered that home services is an industry where the work you do genuinely matters, and over time, Glasson became focused on building a strong team and creating a workplace culture where employees could grow professionally.

Leading in a Male-Dominated Industry

When Glasson first entered the trades, the experience came with its share of challenges. The plumbing industry has historically had fewer women in leadership positions, and early perceptions were not always encouraging.

“In the very beginning, it was both challenging and, for the most part, laughed at. However, through the years it has proven to be incredibly rewarding,” she said. “The skilled trades have traditionally been male-dominated, but I believe that strong leadership, clear communication and respect for the people around you matter more than anything else.”

Encouraging More Women to Enter the Trades

Glasson believes that women bring valuable leadership qualities to skilled trade businesses, such as a strong sense of communication, organization and emotional intelligence. She found that these qualities are incredibly valuable when managing teams and building relationships with customers.

She also encourages women who may be considering careers in the trades or franchise ownership not to be intimidated by outdated perceptions.

“My biggest advice would be to believe in yourself and don’t hold back,” Glasson said. “And don’t allow the perception that a female could never effectively have a career in the skilled trades. That is just false.”

As Glasson’s Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchise continues to expand, she stays focused on leading her team well and making sure customers receive dependable service while continuing to support the employees who help the business succeed.

“What started as an opportunity for my husband and I to grow the business that he already had quickly turned into a passion for creating a strong team, building a positive culture and providing reliable service to the community we serve,” Glasson said.

To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/benjamin-franklin-plumbing. 

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Victoria Campisi

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Victoria Campisi

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