b'(continued from page 12) MADE BY TRADESWOM- Removable Insulation Blankets: A SmartEN, FOR TRADESWOMENSolution for Maintenance Efficiency andAuthenticity is an essential element in developingLong-Term Savingsworkwear that truly meets the needs of tradeswomen,Removable blankets are economically friendly and delivering solutions that will meet the demands of aoffer maintenance workers easy access to valves, professional. Creating a womens workwear line re- strainers, flanges, equipment, and more. The process quires more than just researchit demands the voic- of getting measurements for a perfectly fit blanket es and expertise of women at every stage. A female- may take some time and precision up front, but that led team played a crucial role in shaping Milwau- time will be saved during the installation. More and kees decisions, ensuring that fit and functionalitymore mechanical rooms are littered with typical fi-addressed real-world jobsite challenges. Womenberglass pipe insulation scraps torn off for the day-toacross sourcing, purchasing, legal and marketing in- -day maintenance on valves and equipment. Remov-fluenced every phase of development, ensuring thatable blankets look much cleaner than pipe segments both product design and brand messaging alignedremoved and reapplied. Owners usually leave main-with tradeswomens needs. Their insights resulted intained equipment uninsulated because of the head-workwear that is not only functional and durable, butache of dealing with calling a contractor for every also genuinely representative of those it serves.minor repair. If you bring up the option of removable blankets to clients, they usually dont like the price at By maintaining authenticity throughout the researchfirst, but, once the owners realize they will not have and design process, manufacturers can reinforce theto pay somebody to come back and repair the insula-importance of listening to those who know howtion every time maintenance is needed, the cost women work on the jobsite best.makes more sense. Therefore, it is highly recom-mended to install removable blankets over frequently SETTING A NEW STANDARDmaintained equipment.The revolution of high-performance, female-specific workwear is more than just a few product launchesit marks a shift in how the industry supports trades-women. As their representation in skilled trades grows, so does the demand for apparel and resources designed to meet their needs. Ongoing field research, product testing and innova-tion are driving the evolution of workwear, ensuring it keeps pace with the workforce. Looking ahead, the focus remains on expanding solutions and enhancing materials to provide gear that offers both functionali-ty and longevity in demanding jobsite conditions. Womens presence in the trades is no longer emerg-ingit is firmly established. Advancing functional, long-lasting and thoughtfully designed workwear is a critical step in reinforcing their role in shaping the future of construction and skilled trades. By Nadia Sinner (continued on page 27) 16'