Why non-traditional?
A non-traditional occupation is any career in which women or men represent less than 25% of the workforce. Students of all gender identities, including women, men, transgender, and non-binary students, are encouraged and eligible to explore and pursue NTO pathways.
VANGUARD AWARDS - The award recognizes outstanding post-secondary level students who are enrolled in CTE programs that are nontraditional for their gender.
NTO careers can mean …
- Higher Wages
- Financial Security
- Good Benefits
- Demand for Skilled Workers
- Opportunities for Advancement
- Freedom to Pursue Careers Related to Interests and Abilities
Consider a non-traditional occupation
Entering a non-traditional occupation (NTO) can be rewarding. You have the potential to:
- earn a great salary
- fulfill a personal dream
- enjoy a career doing something you love
Entering an NTO can also be challenging. You may not have:
- a mentor within your profession
- support from friends or family
- support from coworkers
Choosing a non-traditional Career
Aleris Gonzalez is the NTO Student Career Senior Advisor at Hostos Community College. She can offer support, advice and resources while you are exploring or enrolled in a non-traditional program at Hostos Community College.
Netprogram.org
Thinking about — or already in — a nontraditional career? Need information or support? There are plenty of resources and organizations that can help.
Resources
U.S. Department of Labor Women's Bureau
Seeks to improve the status of wage-earning women and their working conditions, increase their efficiency, and advance their opportunities for profitable employment. It offers up-to-date statistics on women in nontraditional fields.
Wider Opportunity for Women
Supports women working in nontraditional fields. It also includes a unit that focuses on self-sufficiency for older working women.
Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW)
Unifies union women, identifies their common problems, and find solutions to those problems.
9 to 5, National Association of Working Women
Focuses on advancing and protecting women's rights at work. This site offers resources to help women deal with sexual harassment, pregnancy discrimination, work-family balance, and more.
Men Teach
Provides data and resources for men considering a career in teaching.
Association for Women in Science
Focuses on advocacy and breaking down barriers for women in science. Visit this site to find resources, mentoring, awards, internships, and job listings.
National Association of Women in Construction
Strives to enhance the success of women in the construction industry.
Supports men in nursing through:
Engineer Girl
Helps girls considering a career in engineering. Be sure to check out the "Ask an Engineer" feature.
Social Work & Counseling Professional Networks
Many professional associations now include support or affinity groups for men entering caring professions:
Out & Equal Workplace Advocates
The leading national organization dedicated to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. Offers career tools, leadership training, and employer directories committed to inclusive hiring and advancement.
Carl D. Perkins V Career and Technical Education Program