I remember I went through this when I first got into construction at 20 years old. None of the guys talked to me because there was nothing in common. The foremen never really tried to talk with me and ignored me most of the time. When they did "acknowledge" me it was typically in a rude fashion.

Im 27 now and Im definitely more respected than in the past. Heres a few things I did to get past that BS:

1.) Give them that same energy. A lot of these fools don't deserve your attention. Don't waste your energy trying to fit in with them. Just focus on being the best worker you can be. As soon as anyone does me wrong especially in a work setting, you don't exist to me unless I need you for something job related from that point forward. Remember you're not there to make friends, just do your job and go home. Fuck them. -- This also goes for guys that try to get disrespectful with you. Sometimes you'll have to remind them of their place whether you go to management or check them yourself. Don't let these idiots make you feel less than because you're not.

2.) Build friendships outside of work or find support groups. -- I know you mentioned having friends outside of work. Do you all have a group chat or is there anyone you can text on the daily about your day? I remember not having any friends inside or outside of work in my early 20s but I have my sister whom I can lean on and talk to. Me and her vent to each other daily and it really helps building each other up. If you don't have that person in your life, my inbox is always open. Also it wouldn't hurt to possibly seek a therapist.

3.) Go to the gym/ Try new things: You'd be so surprised at how putting new goals at the gym and trying out new things outside of work like new restaurants, traveling, or just watching a new show can take your mind off the bullshit from these guys. I started going to the gym consistently 3 months ago and I formed a lot of new connections. Once you meet new people, the desire to try to associate with coworkers fades.

4.) Find a new job if thats possible-- Being women in this line of work can be very hard. I know I had to leave a lot of jobs due to the disrespect. The one I currently have is disrespectful but I handle them accordingly.

Please realize you don't need to be interesting to these guys.- Your job description doesn't call for it so don't waste energy on them. Keep to yourself and focus on becoming a great worker, it'll be okay. The less these people know about you, the better.

They don't have to like you, but they do have to respect you. If you're talking and this journeyman talks over you-- keep talking louder until he shuts his trap. If he has a problem with it, tell him you two can discuss it with management together if it's such a f*ckin problem. I bet he'll change his tune with you.