T.R.A.D.E. TradesWomenRan.org Crystal Herrera My Labor Radio 4 12 2026
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In this episode of My Labor Radio, host Mark Givart speaks with Crystal Herrera, president of TRADE (Trades Women Ran Association for Diversity and Equity), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering women in the building trades. Crystal shares her journey from a union family background to becoming an IBEW member and founding TRADE, which sends women to national events like Tradeswomen Build Nations to build community, share experiences, and foster retention in male-dominated trades. The episode also covers the ongoing NIPSCO and BP lockouts in northern Indiana, where over 2,500 workers are locked out due to contract disputes involving safety, outsourcing, and pay cuts, with significant economic and public safety implications. Mark emphasizes the importance of solidarity, union support, and collective action in defending workers' rights and building inclusive labor movements. The conversation underscores the critical role of mental health awareness, leadership development, and cross-union collaboration in advancing equity in the trades.
TRADE is a model nonprofit that supports women in the trades through conferences, community-building, and financial aid—proving that grassroots organizing can scale across states.
The NIPSCO and BP lockouts highlight how corporate cost-cutting measures threaten worker safety, public infrastructure, and local economies, with 2,500 workers affected and $300 million in annual economic loss.
Retention in the trades remains a crisis—while women are entering, they’re leaving due to harassment, lack of support, and cultural barriers; community is the key to retention.
Mental health in construction is a silent crisis—suicide and overdose rates are highest among tradespeople, making mental health professionals with trade experience essential.
Union solidarity and collective action are vital—supporting striking workers, opposing scabs, and organizing at all levels strengthens the labor movement.
Introduction: The Power of Collective Bargaining
Host Mark Givart opens the episode with a strong message about the importance of unions and collective bargaining, setting the tone for a deep dive into labor struggles and empowerment.
The NIPSCO and BP Lockouts: A Crisis in Indiana
“This dispute isn't just about wages... but how safely that work is done, how reliable and affordable energy service remains for the public.”
Crystal Herrera’s Journey into the Trades
Crystal shares her union-rooted upbringing, her path from a for-profit trade school to joining IBEW, and the emotional weight of being the only woman in line for apprenticeship.
Founding TRADE: From Women’s Committee to 501(c)(3)
“We don't care who you are... every woman in the trades needs that community.”
The Power of Community: Conferences, Bonds, and Belonging
“It's not just about the banner parade... it's about the kids seeing people like them and asking questions.”
“It's not the sister that needs to change. It's the culture that needs to change.”
“We don't care who you are... every woman in the trades needs that community.”
“I had to go from the empty cup... I couldn’t help anyone else until I filled my own.”
Host
Guest
Crystal Herrera
person
TRADE
organization
Mark Givart
person
IBEW
organization
NIPSCO
organization
BP
organization
Tradeswomen Build Nations
other
United Steelworkers
organization
Danelle Lewis
person
CWA
organization
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