A Short History of Women in Plumbing

How Pioneering Women Have Helped Change the Plumbing Industry

Like many of the trades (and perhaps more than most), plumbing is a male-dominated industry. All evidence indicates that it’s been that way since the earliest plumbing systems were invented. But the number of women in the plumbing industry is growing. In modern society, gender equality in the workforce and in business is a continuing goal, but major strides have been made.

In honor of Women’s History Month, here’s a look at a few of the most famous and influential women who made such progress possible and whose impact continues to inspire women everywhere.

Lillian Ann Baumbach - The First Female Master Plumber

The name Lillian Baumbach is well-known by most women in the plumbing profession today. Baumbach eschewed the traditional gender roles for women of her time when, at the age of 21, she acquired her Master Plumber’s license in 1951. Growing up in Arlington, VA, she had spent her summers assisting her father, W.J. Baumbach, in his plumbing and heating business. After high school, she completed her formal apprenticeship and took the Master Plumber exam. She was the only woman in the class - only she and two of the six men passed.

Baumbach’s achievement brought her considerable fame and adoration. She appeared in newspapers and magazines and on several radio and television programs. She also received hundreds of letters from all over the world - and responded to all of them. After marrying, she became the treasurer and operations manager of her dad’s company. Her example still resonates with girls and women in the plumbing trade and beyond.

The National Association of Plumbers’ Ladies Auxiliary Committee

The Ladies Auxiliary Committee for the National Association of Plumbers was formed in the late 19th century. At first, it was merely a social club for the wives of plumbers - during conventions and NAP events, the women would get together and go to dinner, tour whatever city they were in, or go shopping. Around the year 1919, however, the Committee began to get involved in more important matters.

They raised funds to educate young women and girls, lobbied for women’s rights (including the right to vote), pushed for fair trade practices and labor laws, and organized efforts to establish sanitary facilities in gas stations and grocery stores. Between awareness campaigns and their role in implementing industry regulations, they became a powerful force for change in the plumbing industry and women’s rights activism in general.

Women in the Plumbing Industry Today

Today, the number of women plumbers is still relatively small - but it’s growing every day. The industry’s demand for skilled workers and the high salary for plumbing contractors - regardless of gender - makes plumbing a more compelling career choice for young women everywhere. Many trade organizations and plumbing companies offer mentor programs, apprenticeships, and scholarships for women entering the plumbing trade.

Women-owned plumbing companies are also on the rise. Some have been passed down to daughters from previous generations, but just as many have been built from scratch. These thriving businesses make a difference in their communities and serve as a signal that women and girls are needed and welcome in the plumbing industry.

About Cleary Plumbing & Air

The locally-owned Cleary Plumbing & Air has proudly served West Palm Beach, FL for over 25 years. Their friendly, courteous, expert techs arrive on time in fully-stocked trucks and provide up-front pricing and personalized solutions. Cleary offers 24/7 emergency service, financing, and a money-back satisfaction guarantee for every job. Call now for plumbing service!

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