Non-Traditional

Non-traditional careers

Non-traditional occupations are jobs in which men or women comprise less that 25 percent of a field of work or occupation. Some people seek out nontraditional careers because there are unique advantages. For example, women usually enjoy higher wages and benefits compared to traditional female jobs. Men may also enjoy higher wages in jobs traditionally held by women. Either way, both benefit from increased job satisfaction because nontraditional occupations increase the assortment of options available to choose from. However, nontraditional employment is not without its disadvantages. Visit ISEEK to learn more about popular myths, the advantages and disadvantages of nontraditional jobs or to view career videos. Don't limit your job search - think nontraditional! The following occupations/programs are considered non-traditional occupations for men:

  • Administrative Assistant
  • Child Care and Education
  • Cosmetology
  • Dental Assisting
  • Dental Hygiene
  • Medical Administrative Secretary Technology
  • Medical Laboratory Technician
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy Technology
  • Phlebotomy Technician

The following occupations/programs are considered non-traditional occupations for women:

  • 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

Nontraditional Employment Resources Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Each campus has a contact available to discuss nontraditional education program opportunities for men and women. For more information, visit the website above. For questions contact Eva Scates-Winston at 651.297.3792 or TTY: 651.282.2660. WomenVenture www.womenventure.org Provides tools, support and short-term training for women in nontraditional settings. Call 651.646.3808 for more information. Women's Bureau, U.S. Department of Labor www.dol.gov/wb Provides information on nontraditional and traditional jobs for women, quick facts on jobs for women and other supportive information. Are You Man Enough to Be a Nurse - Oregon Center of Nursing http://www.oregoncenterfornursing.org/