International Women's Day is celebrated every year on March 8th and honours the unique contributions of women in the social, industrial, economic, political and cultural fields.

On this special occasion, we are engaging in conversations with Christina Lie, a strong, funny and extraordinary woman who works in plumbing. Christina participated in the RIDGID Europe Experience that took place last November in the US, lives in Norway and she is a very close friend of ours. Let's discover together some more details about Christina and her path in the trades.

1. How did you start working in trades? How long ago? How did it all start?

I wanted to be a plumber when I was young, but I was told that the profession is not for women. Years later I found out that in Norway there is something called an adult apprenticeship. I applied immediately and now I am in my 2nd year as a plumber apprentice.

2. What’s the best part of your job? What about the most challenging one?

The best thing about working in plumbing is that the job is very diverse and creative and it makes me stay active. Plus, I get to help customers with various plumbing issues, while I also help in building the country. On the challenging side, there is a lot of learning needed and many rules to remember and follow.

3. In your opinion, which is the largest impediment that prevents more women from working in plumbing?

It requires heavy work and it is a male-dominated profession.

4. What is people’s reaction when you mention you work in plumbing?

Many people are surprised and think it's really cool. I have only received positive feedback.

5. How do you mix work with your personal life? Days in working boots and nights in high heels? 😊

I only work during the day and have every weekend off so there the mix is very good.

6. What is your message to the young ladies out there who get ready for a job in trades?

It's probably an advantage to always be tough. As an apprentice, regardless of whether you're a boy or a girl, you have to put up with a lot of criticism and "shit jobs".
The best thing is to reply with the same coin, this is my best advice. 😎

7. How do you plan to celebrate International Women's Day? Work and then cocktails? 😊

Work, good food and a beer probably 😎

8. What is your proudest moment since you started to work in trades?

I am always very proud when I get to help others. I made sure that the plumbing students at a high school nearby received a lot of new equipment, they only had old materials to work with. I also give plumbing lectures for school students as a pipe ambassador, where I talk openly about my own school experiences and what it's like to live with ADHD in this profession.

9. How and when did you discover RIDGID?

I discovered RIDGID as soon as I started work because my company uses a lot of RIDGID equipment.

10. Which is your favourite RIDGID tool, and why?

My favourite tool is the RIDGID RP 115 Micro Press Tool. It is small and light, but strong and fast. Reminds me of myself. :)

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