She’s One of the First Women in IBEW 292 | Beyond the Breaker Podcast

• EAGAN, MN – April 9, 2026 –

The latest episode of the Beyond the Breaker podcast features Polly Friendshuh, a trailblazer in the electrical and construction industries. With over 30 years of experience, Polly has broken barriers as one of the first women in a union of 2,500 electricians, worked on iconic projects like the Twin Cities Light Rail, and now serves as a Class A Master Electrician and Assistant Professor at Dunwoody College. Her story is one of resilience, advocacy, and inspiring the next generation of tradespeople.

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Breaking Barriers in the Trades

Polly’s journey into the electrical industry began out of necessity. As a single mother of two young boys, she sought a career that would provide financial stability. Initially pursuing mechanical engineering at the University of Minnesota, she found the demands overwhelming and pivoted to the trades.

“I didn’t want to be poor anymore,” Polly shared. “And so the best way to get not poor was to go into a construction field. So I chose electrician because they didn’t always work outside, and it seemed like it was one where I would kind of do well.”

Despite having no prior experience with tools or construction, Polly excelled, graduating at the top of her class and earning her place in the union. “I was at the top of the class because I wanted to rub it into their faces,” Polly remarked.

Her early days in the field were not without challenges. As the only woman on many job sites, Polly faced skepticism and had to prove herself daily. “Every new job I went to for probably the first three or four years, it was, you know, prove yourself,” she recalled.

But through determination and support from mentors, Polly thrived. One pivotal moment came when a coworker told her, “There’s a place for everyone in this industry. No matter what your size is, no matter what you bring, you bring something to the table that is unique.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Today, Polly channels her experiences into her role as an educator at Dunwoody College, where she teaches electrical construction design and management. Her approach is rooted in empathy and a commitment to helping students find their passion.

“I care about them as people,” Polly said. “They know I care about them. They know they belong, and they know I am there helping them along. I’m there cheering them.”

Polly’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She actively advocates for women in construction and emphasizes the importance of diversity in the industry.

“Having a diverse workforce brings different experiences and perspectives to the table,” she explained. “That’s how you move a company forward.”

Opportunities in the Trades

Polly highlighted the broad opportunities available in the electrical and construction industries, from fieldwork to design, project management, and beyond. Programs like Dunwoody’s Pathways to Careers (P2C) introduce high school students to the trades, offering hands-on experiences that help them explore potential career paths.

For those considering a career in construction, Polly’s message is clear: “This industry is for everybody. Be open to new experiences and challenges. If it was easy, everybody would be doing it.”

Looking Ahead

Polly has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in the trades and challenged outdated perceptions of who belongs in construction. As the industry continues to evolve, she remains committed to advocating for diversity, mentoring the next generation, and ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table.

Watch or listen to the full episode of Beyond the Breaker on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.