Choosing a Non-Traditional Career: Towards Gender Diversity in Employment

Careers dominated by men are said to be non-traditional for women. Those dominated by women are said to be non-traditional for men. 

For women, a trade or occupation is said to be non-traditional when fewer than 33% of the jobs are held by women (e.g., electromechanical engineer or computer engineer).

For men, a trade or occupation is said to be non-traditional when fewer than 33% of the jobs are held by men (e.g., nurse or early childhood educator).

When you consider available career options, you may overlook non-traditional trades or occupations even though they offer good job prospects and challenging tasks.

Gender diversity in employment is important in achieving economic equality. Such diversity can contribute to reducing the wage gap between women and men. Women's access to jobs predominantly held by men is particularly relevant, since these jobs are usually paid higher wages.

Visit the Égalité économique et égalité en emploi page (French only) for further information on the benefits of gender diversity in employment.

To make a career transition or to look for a new job are good opportunities to expand your professional horizon. Visit the Exploring Trades and Occupations page and check the Non traditional filter of your choice to discover the options available to you.