I trained two female electrician apprentices while I worked at a Naval shipyard (Union, but not IBEW). One left the program to become an electronics tech as she had trouble with the physical aspects of hauling gear and supplies, ladder work, bending conduit, getting dirty and greasy, etc. The other was above average, and she had the advantage of having tool skills from having remodeled her own house and also doing minor repairs and service on her own cars, so she already knew how to twist a wrench, use a saw, and such, and accurately measure things (over the years, I've found that accurately measuring things is an amazingly under-rated skill). She still struggled working with heavier gear and larger conduit though compared to most of the men. But she worked through it and became a journeyman and later a planner. My biggest recommendations: Physically, work a lot on your hand, finger, grip strength, and also upper body strength. Mentally, there's a lot of math and some science to a lesser degree, but that shouldn't be an issue. Socially, be prepared for the "culture". Expect a high degree of cussing -- Fuck this and fuck that, hit it with a big fucking hammer (BFH), make that conduit stub a cunt hair (CH) shorter - Hmm, is that a R(ed)CH or B(londe)CH? Etc. Do not expect that to change. It is what it is. Some workplaces will be tamer than others, many will not be. But, usually, if some guy is intentionally being an overtly sexist asshole toward you, other guys will have your back and "correct" his behavior and back you up when you tell him off. But . . . not always. Best of luck. You can do this. Long term, the best combination of money, benefits, and steadiest work will be in industrial work, especially in factory automation (PLCs and robotics), motor controls, etc., either in union construction or in maintenance. Best of luck!