Judaline Cassidy: From Diego Martin to New York's Plumbing Union

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Judaline Cassidy's journey began in Diego Martin, Trinidad, where she grew up facing poverty, abandonment, and countless obstacles. Unable to afford university, she made a decision that would change the course of her life forever—she enrolled in plumbing at the John Donaldson Technical Institute.

What followed was an extraordinary journey from Trinidad to New York City, where Judaline became one of the first women in her union, built a successful career in the skilled trades, and founded Tools & Tiaras, a nonprofit that empowers young girls through trade skills, confidence-building, and leadership development.

In this episode, Judaline shares powerful stories about growing up without her parents, finding strength through her great-grandmother's guidance, overcoming discrimination as a Black immigrant woman in construction, and why she believes skilled trades can transform lives.

We also discuss the importance of trade education, the future of work, the rise of AI, confidence, resilience, and why every young person should learn a skill that can take them anywhere in the world.

Topics include:

• Growing up in Diego Martin
• John Donaldson Technical Institute
• Life as a female plumber in New York
• Becoming the first woman in her union
• Trade school vs university
• Building Tools & Tiaras
• Confidence, grit and resilience
• Women in construction and skilled trades
• Entrepreneurship and leadership
• Creating opportunities for the next generation

Judaline's story is a powerful reminder that where you start does not determine where you finish.

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