Trades are usually known as a male-dominated workforce, but some, such as Haley Williams, showcase otherwise.

Williams works for McDonald’s Electric, a business owned by her grandpa that started in Newkirk in 1972 and serves Ponca City, Kay County and the surrounding area. She began working at McDonald’s in 2013 in the office and began to take an interest in the operations of a journeyman electrician.

“I thought doing something different and not so normal would be cool,” said Williams. “I talked to my grandpa about the benefits and thought it might be worth a shot.”

Williams took two fiveweek courses at Porter Electric Training in Oklahoma City. For Williams, working as a journeyman electrician means that her future is secure without having to worry about student debts and the knowledge that she’ll always be able to find work.

“I like that it is something new you do every day,” said Williams on her favorite aspect of the job. “It is always a learning experience and you never stop learning.”

Williams shared amusing anecdotes about her job, including how she was pregnant twice out in the field and how some people think she is a miracle worker when changing a lightbulb.

She urges others that wish to pursue a similar occupation or take up a trade to not be afraid to ask questions.

“Trades are in need of a bunch of people. Don’t be scared to ask questions, don’t be afraid to reach out,” said Williams.

Williams encourages other to take the same Porter Electric Training test that she did as well. Porter Electric Training has courses in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

“If not for my grandpa, I wouldn’t be here,” said Williams. “[My grandpa] was blown away. It is a low percentage pass rate for test.”