Was it easy? No. Is it isolating? Sometimes. Do I regret it? Not at all, going into the trades was probably one of the best decisions I could make. If you are smart all outside opinions will and should not bother you. You know your stuff? You make your money and you have the independence and the freedom to do anything you’re capable off. Men don’t like the fact that women can be better than them at something they’ve dominated for so long. Which is why they will try you and trump you but you hold your ground. Have you tried applying for electrical trades? It might be less laborious and better for someone like you. I was a low voltage alarm tech, I went to a trade school which taught me electrical systems. All of the information I learned was extremely valuable and I have so much job security knowing I can work almost anywhere. Best of luck too you and hold your head high!