CDers, what is your vocation?

[KayC]

I am just curious, if more CDers are left-brained or if it makes any difference. My SO is an artist and I've heard several others here are...just out of curiosity, what is your vocation? I'm wondering if being a CDer affected what you picked as a vocation (easier to dress, have long hair, etc.).

[meri]

I do the programming behind web sites, I hire out help to make nice graphics. I am very left-brained and "techie".

[Sarah Doepner]

Organizational performance stats and analysis was my vocation, but I do photography and write fiction as well.

[Kimmy55]

Tool and Die Maker here.Soon to be retired and then who knows.

[Wen4cd]

I am the Ruler of the Free World, or a librarian, depending on the moment.

[kasha]

I fix computers and networks.

[Karren H]

Coal miner!! Free eye liner!! Lol.

[Teri Jean]

Building Repair as well as Journeyman Machinist, certified locksmith, steam engineering and jet engine mechanic. A life time of trying to survive and provide for the family.

Teri

[RobynB]

Former army officer, former police officer, former railroad engineer. Now currently retired and loving it!!

[Dana]

Retired United States Marine, bartender, chef, cook, produce manager, grocery clerk, club manager, admin clerk, store clerk, security guard, and presently metallurgical and plastic lab technician.

[Ann Thomas]

Um, that's a tough one for me. Been self employed a long time and do alot of things:

Computer programmer
General Contractor
Heavy Equipment operator
Waterjet Machine Tool Operator/Maintenance/Programmer
Accounting
Sales and Marketing
Live Theater Technical Director
Lighting Designer
Record Label Producer
TV Camera Operator
Multicamera TV Directing
Symphony orchestra composer
Aromatherapist
Spiritual motivational speaker

Lots of stuff going on both left and right brained. Looking for work right now. I've got my little one page resume just cuz that's what people want, but my full length CV is over 6 pages and growing as I fill it out more.

Hugs,
Ann

[bobi jean]

I served in the navy after high school. worked construction (iron hanger) for a couple years. worked in production type machining for years (about 30) and still worked construction on my own all along. Now I am a care provider for a woman that would not let any one else into the house unless I was here, so I became her care-manager/giver and have been on hold with my repair and remodeling service for three years now. right brained/ left brained/ middle brained/ no brained, doesn't matter. I LOVE WEARING "MY" CLOTHES even if they were intended for the other (real female) gender. and expect I will keep on doing it.

[Wen4cd]

^Ann I'd love to be like you in that regard, and do everything I wanted to do. How on earth do you keep track of it all? I have a phobia of paperwork and accounting. :o

[Ashley_in_Texas]

Plumber
professional realestate inspector
OSHA safety supervisor
remodeling
computer building/repair
welding
open water scuba diver
home builder
fencing
and on and on....
Left and right side living in harmony.

[countrygirl]

Cashier, and Sales

[Brianna in Hose]

I work in retail and am currently in management trainee.

[DeeAnne69]

i work with the V-22

[DonnaT]

I'm an artist, hobby wise.

Work wise, I'm an Electrical Engineer working for a Patent Law firm as a Patent Agent.

[Annette_boy]

Hi All
I have been manythings in my time

Retired Navy Boatswains Mate
Carnival Barker
Ship yard Rigger
Game Shop owner
Military Minietures Painter
Reinactor (Medieval)
Wine maker Brewer of Beer
Sculptor (Modifying Figurines for game use)
Amature Glazier (Stained Glass)

So I guess I have been using both sides of brain
Hugs Annette

[Crissy Kay]

Right now, I am a full time caregiver, or PCA,[personel care assistant]. In years prior, I was in factory work with metals and plastics.

[EjayeCD]

Police Lieutenant

[deja true]

Police Lieutenant

Dangle? Is that you?

-----------------------------------------
Me? Well a lotta things in a somewhat interesting life...so far...

Writer
Photographer
Silversmith
B&B Manager
Divemaster
Charter Boat 1st Mate
Retail StoreOwner
Bartender
and a few other things I've been paid for...

and...a few things I've not been paid for...
First Responder
1st Aid Trainer
Security
Painter (you know, art...:))
Painter (yeah, houses, too)
Docent
SCC volunteer (my favorite!)

[brittanny]

I was a mechanic and now I'm a lineman or (linewoman lol)

[gender_blender]

From my experience, an unusually high percentage of CD/trans (that I've met, read about, heard from online, etc) are with the tech fields, specifically that of computer programming/engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering, illustrating not a gravitation toward artistic vocations, but those of intellectual creativity.

I am an Electrical Engineer.

[Kathi Lake]

Wow, thinking about it, both sides of my pea-sized brain have had a workout in my many careers to date:

Load bombs, bullets, missiles, and nukes on jets
Warehouse worker
Nursery worker
Rack jobber (travel to music stores and sell them the latest albums)
Professional audio installer
Audio tech (have mixed live shows for Chicago, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, They Might be Giants, etc.)
Voice talent (if you live in the west, you've probably heard me :))
Graphic artist
Programmer
Medical social worker (after a few degrees in counseling psychology and social work)

Currently, I am working for a large hardware manufacturer doing techie stuff (programming, testing, etc.) along with "fluffy" stuff (interface design, hardware design, graphics for web and software, helping the marketing and sales weasels, etc.)

I love learning, I love a challenge, and I love interesting stuff!

Kathi

[sarah-cd]

Police detective and SWAT Officer for a regional team.

[StarrOfDelite]

Student, professional variety (Eleven years and four universities, BA, JD, MA, and some of the course work and research for doctoral dissertation which never got written).

Infantry platoon leader in wartime (Between BA and MA).

Trial Lawyer for a dozen years, from the point where the GI college benefits ran out and I had to get a job (ugh!) up to the point where I got the much prayed for Big Verdict and got out of the Rat Race while I was still sane.

Unpublished Novelist (actually unsubmitted due to anxiety and compulsion to continually rewrite and self-edit)

College Professor, American History.

Defendant in Divorce Case (Three times).

[Shari]

I guess the left brain continues with me.

Once I cuddint even sphell enjaneer, now I are one.

Oh, I be a lectrical injuneir

[Rebecca Jayne]

Me?

I'm a professional shopper.

Nothing else matters but happens because of...

[xdbiker]

for me lets see
pressmen sales the last 7 years running my own head shop and makeing glass pipes and love toys

[Jilmac]

I am a retired carpenter/structural mechanic. I have worked most of my life in the building trades in both new construction and building repair and maintenance.

[MyBlackTights]

I dabble in everything, right now i own an auto repair shop.

[Rebecca Jackson]

Military Policeman
firefighter (wildland)
environmental clean-up and demolition for the Gov

I now do administrative work for a university

Hopefully I'll have another job to add to the list that I enjoy more and find more fulfilling.

[Granny Gray]

Full Time Retiree... best job I ever had.
Life Guard, Referee, Umpire, Judge (diving). Plastics plant shift worker, Air Force Officer, (Retired Reserve 0-6), Instructor Navigator, Instructor Pilot, Avionics Instructor, Avionics Engineer, Trainer (Electronics systems. AF) Air Operations Command, Grad Student, Clinical Psychologist, Several years computer consulting. Ran an Auto repair shop, ran a Motorcycle Repair Shop, Been retired since 1981.. Author, publisher, Editor, Publication layout designer for a quarterly mag for crossdressers. Avocation: Theologian, fill-in "preacher", comparative religions teacher, and even an occasional stand-up comedian... FULL TIME being ME. Oh, I did my own "lawyering" in the one divorce I had which taught me how stupid it is to make the same mistake twice. Father of 4, two of whom are Ph.d's. Been happily single since 1977. Granny

[shannon81]

I am a civil engineer.

[Janine cd]

I'm a retired high school teacher who has taught history, science, and computer technology.

[Melanie R]

Retired but former psychotherapist, CEO of several health care companies and now part time cruise/travel agent.

[dutch-anita]

electrical and mechanical engineer (the new word is mechatronical engineer but I do it since 1991) I use both my R and L side (lol)

[Marcia Blue]

Automotive technician fo more than 30 years.
Dabbled in construction and tool and die on the side.

[JoAnne Wheeler]

Farm hand -> Funeral Home worker -> Equipment operator -> public speaker --> ambulance chaser

JoAnne Wheeler

[sarah_tx]

I was a gravedigger once, no kidding.

[DiannaRose]

I work in the tech industry, but my passion is writing. (Four stories published this year, as Mr. Me.) :) Assuming I can start exploring my feminine side a little more openly (meaning, at all), I hope to dive back into my writing with a bit more passion and confidence, and really make it fly! :)

Years ago, I gave a left/right brain test to my co-workers (again, in the tech industry), and the overall results showed we were a more right-brained group than left.

...don't know how significant that is, but there it is. :)

[Aska]

I am a computer networking/security specialist, I also do photography and design tattoo's.

[suchacutie]

Vocation: Chemist

Avocation: Violinist

both sides :)

tina

[Karen__Starr]

I teach defensive tactics, specialize in empty hand combatives, firearms, edge weapons, batons and handcuffing (hehe on handcuffing). Also part of a specialized executive protection group catering mainly to politicians and professionals.

[PretzelGirl]

20 years in the Army starting with being a Tank Gunner and finishing operating/repairing communications systems.

Then I was an Operations Manager.

Now I am a Communications Engineer.

[TSchapes]

I work for a Fortune 500 company who's managed to name the Detroit Tiger's Stadium after themselves. Before this I was a lounge musician (drums). Before that, a public school music teacher.

Other jobs: motor route newspaper salesman, department store salesman, car wash slave, and a bee hive maker (you know those wooden ones that farmers use? yea, I worked in a factory that made those).

So I think I'm middle brained...

Or is that muddled brained...

-Tracy

[Kimberly Marie Kelly]

Mostly field service positions where I travelled extensively, sometimes internationally.

Cardiac Ultrasound Tech support specialist (servicing)
Gamma Camera Tech Specialist (servicing)
Training instructor for Cardiac Ultrasound (Trained other Techies on how to service them)
Network / PC hardware & Software support tech;
Servicing Office copiers and printers
Janitorial / cleaning between my major jobs during layoff's.

Presently doing Network / PC / Software support. (no travel anymore thank you.)

Kimberly Marie Kelly:battingeyelashes:

[Charla]

Scientist in plastics for twenty-some years

[tinalynn]

6 years working with SONAR systems on a fast attack submarine (that was sweet, if I was only more mature when I left I would have stayed in!)
5 yrs of shift work operating/maintaining high density recorders
~14 yrs in various engineering positions with a large defense contractor

[SusanMarie]

I was 'successful' in Real Estate...now I am just 'in' Real Estate.
But, hey...I am t-gurl at heart...life is good :)

[lilmissjenny]

i work in a stockroom for a government contractor. my hobby is custom cars and trucks. i own a "lowrider" truck

<3 Jenny

[joank]

I'm an ex cowboy,ex horse trainer, ex semi-driver anb RETIRED teacher (four decades secondary).

[sherri52]

Retired letter carrier here in my right frame of mind (left handed), and with long hair.

[NathalieX66]

After hours stockperson at Victoria's Secret.

[PretzelGirl]

After hours stockperson at Victoria's Secret.

Now I'm jealous....

[Terri Andrews]

Retired from telephone company

[rustifer]

Electrician

[Tora]

Heavy Equipment, trainer, operator, sales engineer for a multi-national manufacture.

[Vicky Peters]

Retired NVH engineer.

[Diane Smith]

Roughly in order:

Computer assisted instruction author/programmer
College photography/cinematography teacher
Independent filmmaker/audio recording studio engineer/producer
Community media activist, manager of public access cable studios
College television production teacher
Freelance television facilities designer/consultant
Graduate student in education
Teacher/head of computer science and IT department in a high school

Have always done as hobbies:

Electronics
Audio
Video
Photography
Amateur radio
Model rockets

- Diane

[trannie T]

It is interesting to see the variety of vocations here, a lot of 'tech' jobs and engineers, several law enforcement, but very few sales people or teachers. A am another former law enforcement officer, retired after 25 years with the prison system.

[Dawn Marie]

I'm an ex-high school chemistry teacher, and Lab technician for the last 25 years in chemical and petroleum industry. And Jeweler.

[christinek]

11 1/2 years in Veterinary Medicine

8 Months in Home Land Security (crap ass job)

3 years and counting with a CNWDI clearance and I cannot tell you more than that, but if you know what CNWDI means you fully understand. :D

I am a jack of all trades master of none.

[RachelTVG]

Right now I'm an auto mechanic.

My hobbies include computers, photography, gunsmithing and writing.

[donnatracey]

Now I'm jealous....

Was thinking the same thing!......:daydreaming:

[Cheryl James]

Teacher here. Mostly Calculus. Coached several sports, football, basketball,and tennis on H.S. and college level. Macho and left-brained...not.

[Pam Girl]

I am a front desk clerk for motel 6

[Jacky Aikou]

Coal miner!! Free eye liner!! Lol.

:lol2: Now there is proof you can put a girly spin on anything! Thanks for that and many other laughs, Karen!

I'm an office slave/ translator, but not really at heart, I'd say. Kind of like a repressed creative type...

[kellycan27]

Accountant......:)

[karennjcd]

Wow this involves just about every profession! Good thread! :)

I'm in data processing too like so many others above. I think what many here would prefer doing, if they don't already, are:

a) work from home
b) be retired
c) work in an occupation with frequent travel so you have frequent hotel stays.

Just my :2c:

Karen

[Meghan]

Let's see...

I do analysis and computer modeling

I am a part time club DJ

And I have a strong interest in solving complicated, non linear problems.

And that's just my day jobs!

Meghan

[Melissa73]

alright i didnt see this one, i am a restarant manager. and single, so i can dress everyday when at home

[Lorileah]

Veterinary Laser surgeon and medicine, special interest in cats, consultant online for lay people on the largest online veterinary web group, Painted landscapes, done animal portraits in pastels. I am a musician, Published author and used to be a prolific writer. I don't have a left or right side brain

[Juliemckay]

Former professional musician...

Mechanical engineer, software engineer

[dawnmcdaniels]

Photojournalist

[Reba Kay]

Former Electrician and retired professional musician

[heatherb]

Been with the Post Office since 1974. (Scottsdale and Phoenix, Az, Albany, Or and now Holland Mi.)

[Andy66]

Wow, this is so interesting! :)

I'm normally a paperwork nerd: office lady, billing, paralegal. Now working retail for the time being.

[erickka]

That was my original vocation. I hated being strapped to a desk, so I defaulted to being a "boat doctor", doing anything from engine rebuilds and electronics installation/ interfacing, to major fiberglass repairs.It does seem that a lot of us girls are in jobs that require either a lot of brain power, or having a lot of natural creativity. GG's brains are very complex, so maybe that is one of a zillion explainations for us being who we are, since our brains are (or at least seem to be) more complex than the averege males. Please don't read too much into this, since it is only my personal observation, and , none the less, my :2c: on the subject. Hope everyone is well.
Hugs, Erickka

[DanyaKay]

Was a chemist in the petroleum industry and then got into the energy business. I am the operations manager for a natural gas storage facility. dk

[maya1love]

I'm a family lawyer!

[il.dso]

Medical Doctor (M.D.)

[Kate Jennings]

Investment Banker

[Tracy Lynn]

I am an artist and getting ready to go to cosmetology school.:)

[carrie-ann]

Truck driver hear. Retiered mil.

[allisonrn06]

I worked at a lot of different jobs early on, but the one I've done the longest is nursing, having been in the profession for approximately 20 years. I may have missed it, but I didn't see anyone else who is a nurse, and very few in general from the healthcare professions.

[Mary Jane]

I am retired after working 38 1/2 years with the local John Deere agricultural dealership as a service technican. The last 24 years were spent on a field service truck.

[Megan70]

Retired after 35 years as a newspsper creative layout artist. Now druive Medical Taxi part time to keep afloat.

[Crystal Rose]

I work with human resource area of the Army!:brolleyes:

[Samantha Kelsey]

Well, I'm now retired but used to be a fire fighter. In my last 10 years I spent a lot of time giving lectures and training to large groups of people. Now I'm retired but still work a little on odd jobs. However I also sing. Anything from the 40s to today. I love standing in front of an audience, the more the merrier. on't get me wrong here, I'm not proffesional but have done many private parties and some theatre stuff.

The point of telling you this is to show that I like standing in front of people as either a male or female though I'm not a drag artist. Maybe there is some thing inside that just wants me and others like me to show themselves off.

[JennaR]

Roofing, if you asked anyone who wasn't in the know they would never guess that people like myself, Ejaye, Karren, and you didn't work as hairdressers. I guess the jokes on them :battingeyelashes:

[Laura_Stephens]

From my experience, an unusually high percentage of CD/trans (that I've met, read about, heard from online, etc) are with the tech fields, specifically that of computer programming/engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering, illustrating not a gravitation toward artistic vocations, but those of intellectual creativity.

I am an Electrical Engineer.

very perceptive.

[RobertaM]

Senior mgr in a manufactring/distribution company. Logistics is my game..

[joann426]

i am retired from a coal mine and my hobby is driving my challenger and collecting die cast models from the past

[kathie225]

cleverly disgiused as a trial lawyer and judge. I've been retired for nearly 14 years.

Nice visiting with you and good luck to all. Kathie

[kateyliz]

I was a chemist, now I'm retired and working as an empty nest housewife except I don't get to dress the part very often. Hugs, Kathy

[Leslie Langford]

I used to be a senior manufacturing executive and at one point ran 3 manufacturing plants. Now I am embracing an unexpected "early retirement" which is allowing "Leslie" to flourish, so I guess that every cloud has its silver lining.

The operative words in this connection are "used to be" and "manufacturing". Can anyone here say "recession" and "manufacturing jobs being exported to China at an increasing rate"? You know, those guys whom we used to consider to be genocidal human rights violators and godless Communists and wouldn't even acknowledge as existing not too many years ago?

[kimkat]

Currently I work as a pharmacist but I am taking some refresher courses in the hopes of making a goood score on the MCAT and getting into medical school.

Kim

[maggiecdva]

I'm a middle school teacher!

[Laurie A]

Former Electrician and retired professional musician

Electric Guitar?

[Kinky with Ink]

Hmm I do Satellite Communications work. Very left brained and a techie through and through. I'm horrible at art though....can't draw a straight line for the life of me.

[ginafaye]

severd in the army, retired from telcom, now do armed secuity work......yes i undress the uniform

[Anna the Dub]

I plan newspaper layouts and output finished papers direct to plate in pre press production in newspaper publishing. In other words I sit in front of a computer all day.

When I was in my teens I served a 4 year apprenticeship as a Plumber, but it was not for me. Have been in newspapers now for nearly 19 years.

[Frédérique]

I am just curious, if more CDers are left-brained or if it makes any difference. My SO is an artist and I've heard several others here are...just out of curiosity, what is your vocation?

I’m an artist, a visual artist, a fine artist to be precise. I make etchings for a living, along with an occasional painting or two (I’m working on one now). I’ve never researched the “one side of the brain or the other” concept – in my case, artistic ability just developed from the inability to do other things most people take for granted. I had to find a way to communicate, so I did, period. I often tell people I hit my head several times when I was a boy (which is true), and I became an artist due to the collective trauma (also true). Hmmm…maybe there is something to this “left-brained” concept after all. :thinking:

[Andrea Renea]

Industrial Engineer

[jennylogan]

I change the spent fuel rods in nuclear reactors and can lead the singing at revival meetings. I've even cured virginity on several occasions.

[kimmy p]

I change the spent fuel rods in nuclear reactors and can lead the singing at revival meetings. I've even cured virginity on several occasions.


Former factory worker, and now a Massage Therapist.

[BLUE ORCHID]

Petroleum industry 40 yrs. 1969/2009
licensed master Electrician 38 yrs. 1971/2009
------------------------------------------

Truck driver 5 yrs. 1965/1959
Auto mechanic 3 yrs. 1962/1965
.
.................................................. ...thanks...........ORCHID

[ellieparsons]

Construction General Contractor, working in the office & in the field.

[Tip or Ozma]

Retired automotive engineer, elementary school substitute teacher, property manager, writer and painter

[SueanneW]

Marine Engineer, Naval Officer, Laboratory Tech, Design and Field Service Engineer, Facilities Manager, Manufacturer of Marine products (32 yrs) and finally retired.:) Sueanne

[cd_jamie]

army radio operator
computer tech
home appliance repair and sales
general contractor
vending machine repair
mechanic (big trucks)
truck driver

short list but lifes been fun so far

[Rogina B]

Oldest profession in the world..Prostitute. well for this Halloween I'll play a harlot...

[Staci]

Manager in a transportation company here.

[MissyW]

Senior Field Service Technician.

[donnatracey]

Retired military (AF), have worked in retail, public library, and education since then.

[Sarah5]

Nice and boring here....I'm in application support...hard to wear a nice dress or blouse and skirt on a shop floor...lol...oh the looks would be priceless!

[Suzy Harrison]

I'm a part time time fashion glamour model - ............................and a full time liar ! :heehee:

No, my list is:

Apprentice Aircraft Technician
Avionics Technician (Inertial Navigation Systems) on B747, Concorde and VC10
Aircraft Engineer (Instruments, Radio/Radar, Electrical) - B747, B777, Airbus A330, A340
Medical Field Support Engineer for Western Australia


If I had my time again? - I would have probably have been a make up artist

[Phoebe Reece]

Construction engineering / project management. I am currently retired, but still manage renovation projects for my church.

[stefcd1]

Project engineer for defense corporation. Adjunct professor of mathematics at local college.

[AKKaren]

:daydreaming:Ex Marine tank driver, 30 plus years driving trucks all over North America, the last 12 as a "Ice road Trucker"

[subwrx]

I am currently a Corporate Jet Aircraft Mechanic.
I have also worked as an
Electrician
Welder

(My dream job would be a Victoria Secret stock girl:))

[chrissy_crossdresser]

i work in the PC department of Best Buy. i love it

[Lynnda1951]

Electrical engineer and registered nurse

[borbiusle]

Bomber Jet Aircraft Technician

[Vi]

Farmer = Tan all year.

[melanieee]

Explosives maker:nailbiting::nailbiting::nailbiting:

[wendy68]

Mental health therapist

[Laura_Stephens]

Mental health therapist

Ever work with other CD's?

[tifftg]

also trucks in my early years

[weekend woman]

Auto mechanic
Automotive machinist
Hydraulic mechanic/tool repair
Back to auto mechanic
this covers the last 43 years

[KarenS]

11 1/2 years in Veterinary Medicine

8 Months in Home Land Security (crap ass job)

3 years and counting with a CNWDI clearance and I cannot tell you more than that, but if you know what CNWDI means you fully understand. :D

I am a jack of all trades master of none.

I do know what CNWDI means, had one for awhile. Now I work on the other side of the in-hour equation. If you know what that means, then you know what I do for commercial enterprise. But, this time, I have a degree in it and seeking a higher level degree.

Suffice to say, tech. Everyone knows me as a geek. Don't think about doing what I do unless you could program a computer when you were born and do it without any instruction.

I also do home repair and remodeling, sing, and play guitar.

[Lisa Renee]

Presently I work in the customer service field for a freight company
I have also worked;

Machinest Mate in the US Navy 3 1/2 years
Auto Mechanic Close to 20 years
Auto Parts counter About 14 years

Part time jobs;

Pizza hut cook
Security Officer

[Earlene]

Work on retail electronics and computers. As a hobby I like to do crafts.

Earlene

[DianneRoberts]

Crash Test Dummy

[pantyhoselover]

Airline Pilot
Technical background

[Berta82]

Firefighter/Paramedic

[Violetgray]

From my experience, an unusually high percentage of CD/trans (that I've met, read about, heard from online, etc) are with the tech fields, specifically that of computer programming/engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering, illustrating not a gravitation toward artistic vocations, but those of intellectual creativity.

I am an Electrical Engineer.

Interesting choice of words here.. "artistic vocation" and "intellectual creativity?" I think most would associate vocation with intellect and creativity with the word artistic.

At any rate, I'm a part time stand up comic, and I work in a library, and I'm also an aspiring writer. I struggle with math, I'm much better at languages and drawing, so I guess I'm definitely a right-brained person!

[Annie D]

High school teacher and varsity coach for 12 years and still coaching.
Elementary physical education for 8 years.
Parks and Recreation director for 4 years.
YMCA physical director and executive director for 9 years.
Elementary p.e. for 5 years when teachers made less than $10K a year.

Did I say that the kids love my nails?

[tamarav]

100135

Cosmetologist. for me that also includes: hairstylist, wig stylist, makeup artist, permanent makeup artist, color specialist. I get to go to work dressed everyday and love every minute of it.

[Fran Moore]

I used to wonder about this too KC, as I used to meet a lot of "left brainers" at the various transgendered conventions that I have attended. Also a lot of engineers for some reason:eek:

As this thread proves, we come from all walks of life and a variety of professions, so I would have to say that there is no real "common thread" or connection between crossdressing and occupation, although some may have "adjusted" their jobs to fit into a more condusive crossdressing lifestyle.

For me, I earn a living at what gives me personal satisfaction and acceptable compensation, and am fortunate enough to get up and go to a job that I enjoy doing every day. That mindset also applies to crossdressing, and I wouldn't want to be a desk jockey, or do something that I disliked or wasn't good at, just to wear a dress every day.

It's a free country. Do what you want to, wear what you want to.


I'm a heavy equipment operator.



I am left handed though......:brolleyes:



Suzanne

[Jennylace]

Well I own a computer store and as the boss I can go to work dressed.
I'm also a alternitive lifestyle Disk jocky. I play at local clubs for the transgender crowd also have been doing a lot of fetish dances for local swinger groups and a few civil unions. and work for a local lesbian Inn very high end clients. so I get to have a lot of fun in a dress.
sometimes will sub as lead guitar in a band here and there.

[TxKimberly]

I started my career off being a Pershing (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pershing_missile#Pershing_II) Electronics and Material Specialist in the US Army. The Pershing was a mobile, mid-ranged, nuclear missile and it was my job to keep it and all of it's support systems functoning so that we could kill the most people with the least time and effort. (No, I don't really consider it a laughing matter, but it's either laugh or cry . . )

When the did away with that system (one of the happiest days of my life) I was retrained into Repair and Calibration of test and diagnostic equipment and that paved the road for what later became my civilian career.

Today, I am a field service engineer for a company based out of Wilmington MA and I travel the country, and sometimes the world, doing installations, repairs, and training on the equipment my company makes.

While I do work on other systems my company produces, most of my work these days is done on our assorted Mass Spectrum analyzers. Mostly this has me working around the universities, semiconductor, automotive, and gas production and analysis industries.

My hobbies are writing and recording my own songs (http://www.youtube.com/user/TxKimberly), programming, and reading science fiction. :)

[Ashlee]

Berta82, kathy lake & I all have the same careers.

[dennisGTS]

US Army 14 year (so far) service member UH-60A/L Blackhawk Maintenance Test Pilot. Plan on retiring at 20 years of service. Before I joined the Army, I had a job as a bagger at the Commissary and as a Bellman at a Hotel.

[Christina Horton]

undercover police officer working in intelligence.


Is that not an oxymoron. LOL. Just kidding hun.:heehee:



Manager in a transportation company here.



Hay I want a good job driving could you give me a good job where I can dress while driving. LOL.



Ok I am a long haul Trucker. Have been for the past 15 years or so.

Before that I was working at my dad's auto body shop as a body mechanic and a mechanical helper to the real mechanic's. I learned alot. But that was when I was young. I am still young at 39 so I still have a long time to find a job I want and will love . Soooon I hope.

[gender_blender]

Interesting choice of words here.. "artistic vocation" and "intellectual creativity?" I think most would associate vocation with intellect and creativity with the word artistic.

Thanks. I always select all of my words wisely.

I respectfully disagree. I don't think most would jump to that word associaton necessarily. While artistic endeavours are indeed creative (by conveyence of feeling), their "intellectual" merit is subjective or debatable (hence, the study/interpretation of the Arts), whereas intellectual vocations (such as engineering) facilitate creativity of a more problem-solving/practical nature and are generally denoted by accepted standards of higher fact-based education and much larger paychecks. :P

[Misty is Kindafem]

My division manages large low voltage/technology construction projects and I'm the boss lady.

I'm actually the boss MAN, but a girl can dream.

-Misty

[BRANDI66]

Between the Corps an my Department I was in law enforcement 8 years and been a diagnostic auto tech for almost 10

[Jennifer Silverstone]

I know it's a bit of a cliche for a TV, but I'm a truck driver! I like the solitude mainly, I function better on my own. Not really a team player. Previously I have worked in various warehouses and factories, and was a manager for a year (when I was 20, so they could pay me peanuts). I also play guitar, write science fiction and used to be good at art!

[aggi123]

I work Undercover Loss Prevention. But I majored in Television Production...go figure

[Violetgray]

Thanks. I always select all of my words wisely.

I respectfully disagree. I don't think most would jump to that word associaton necessarily. While artistic endeavours are indeed creative (by conveyence of feeling), their "intellectual" merit is subjective or debatable (hence, the study/interpretation of the Arts), whereas intellectual vocations (such as engineering) facilitate creativity of a more problem-solving/practical nature and are generally denoted by accepted standards of higher fact-based education and much larger paychecks. :P

I think it would depend on how you define "intellectual." Let's remember that there are several different types of intelligence. Saying that it is simply scientific or, "Fact Based" ability would be an incomplete definition. Also, just as there are higher standards of "fact based" education there are also higher standards of artistic education, like Peabody institute, or Juliard. Is the intellectual merit of art subjective? Yes. But just as there are simple and complex examples of engineering, there are simple and complex examples of art.

Also, one might argue that problem solving by thinking outside the box is a right-brained activity, even in a field like engineering. And it is very true that the average engineer probably makes more than the average artist (you never hear the phrase 'starving engineer') But I'd be willing to bet that the top artists make FAR more than most of the top engineers.

[Sully]

I am an IT Tech and part time guitar player in a rock band... I would love to go on stage dressed up...

[gender_blender]

I think it would depend on how you define "intellectual." Let's remember that there are several different types of intelligence. Saying that it is simply scientific or, "Fact Based" ability would be an incomplete definition. Also, just as there are higher standards of "fact based" education there are also higher standards of artistic education, like Peabody institute, or Juliard. Is the intellectual merit of art subjective? Yes. But just as there are simple and complex examples of engineering, there are simple and complex examples of art.

Also, one might argue that problem solving by thinking outside the box is a right-brained activity, even in a field like engineering. And it is very true that the average engineer probably makes more than the average artist (you never hear the phrase 'starving engineer') But I'd be willing to bet that the top artists make FAR more than most of the top engineers.

I personally would not label most art as "intellectually demanding" beyond the luck of guessing how to appropriately convey emotion, but the standards of engineering/science-based education are far less open to interpretation and more based upon effective and practical results.

You make an excellent point which coincidences with my own. While the rarity of becoming a succesful artist (perhaps comparable to entering the lottery) can yield a greater financial result eventually, an engineering/science-based education commonly places graduates into stable and well-paid positions. An education does not an artist make, but can prepare one for enthusiastically inquiring "Would you like fries with that?"

Best,

[stacy-marie hanna]

i work in a supermarket
im a checkout chick!!

stacy-marie

[natasha]

service writer in a auto shop
mechanic
auto parts sales
Public Works for the last 20+ years

[Samantha Girl]

I think there might be something to the left brain theory. I'm an artist myself. I think to a certain extent artistic types are more open to new experiences and/or not following societal conventions. It's kind of our job, to a certain extent, to challenge what's supposedly "normal"

just my 2 cents ;)

[Princess_of_Hckloins]

I work as a retail meat cutter in a small town. Outside of work, my interests are amateur radio and TV-FM DXing.

[DeeArel]

Gargage man

[StaceyJane]

former U.S. Army Combat Lab Tech
Now I work as a regular civilian lab tech in an Army Hospital

[SuzanneBender]

Kay what a fabulous thread. When they get long like this I typically don't read them all but I did this one. I have many vocations. My first job lets me put them all together psychology, teaching, and writing. Don't ask about my second job because I can’t tell. :battingeyelashes:

[SuzanneBender]

I personally would not label most art as "intellectually demanding" beyond the luck of guessing how to appropriately convey emotion, but the standards of engineering/science-based education are far less open to interpretation and more based upon effective and practical results.

You make an excellent point which coincidences with my own. While the rarity of becoming a succesful artist (perhaps comparable to entering the lottery) can yield a greater financial result eventually, an engineering/science-based education commonly places graduates into stable and well-paid positions. An education does not an artist make, but can prepare one for enthusiastically inquiring "Would you like fries with that?"

Best,

Just like us this issue is not binary. It takes the right combination of science and art to be successful. The greatest scientists and engineers realize that to create even in the presence of absolute rules you must have art and the greatest artists and composers will tell you that there is a science that underlies there greatest works.
The brain wouldn't be that great of an organ without both a left and right half.
:hugs:

[Alice Green]

Artist, mostly ceramics, but paint, draw, ect... I can just about do it all.

[Violetgray]

Just like us this issue is not binary. It takes the right combination of science and art to be successful. The greatest scientists and engineers realize that to create even in the presence of absolute rules you must have art and the greatest artists and composers will tell you that there is a science that underlies there greatest works.
The brain wouldn't be that great of an organ without both a left and right half.
:hugs:

Very well put Suzanne!

But GenderBlender,

Guessing? Luck? Surely you jest? Once or twice in a lifetime sure, but to do it consistantly and professionally takes skill and talent. I'll use my field of stand-up comedy as an example. You're in a room with a couple hundred other people, you don't know them, they don't know you, but for the next 20 minutes you'll have to say things that'll make 90% of them laugh. It takes a special combination of timing, tone, inflection, and wit to accomplish this, not to mention being able to read your audience and get a feel for their moods, and dealing with drunken hecklers in a way that everyone will enjoy, and not make the situation tense. Ever seen "Showtime at the Apollo?" Where people get booed off the stage? Ask a comedian or musician on that stage how far luck and guessing takes them.

"guessing" implies that either you have the answer or you don't. It's not that simple, and honing an art can take many years. If, with your art you can express yourself skillfully, the emotion and sentiment in your work will resonate with someone. It takes a certain kind of intelligence (and business savy) to create a book or song or movie that millions around the world will enjoy. It may not be an intelligence of a sort that you can comprehend, but it's the reason that Mozart was called a genius.

And while yes, it is easier to become a successful engineer than an artist, I think that you misrepresent the amount of working artists out there. You see them all over TV, You hear them all on the radio, Their books are all over the subway, Their drawings and paintings are in restuarants, shopping malls, their character designs are in video games. I think that working artists are more common than lottery winners. There are more successful engineers because being a successful artist is MORE demanding, not less.

And I think that to a certain extent you prove MY point. The sciences require less creativity specifically because they are fact-based, and when an attempt at a creative solution fails, you can always go back to the drawing board. Numbers are always going to be numbers, after all. Musicians and actors don't have that safety net. The world of professional art whether in music, acting, ect. is very, VERY results driven, and can be extremely competitive, and I don't think you comprehend the even the kind of intelligence it takes, let alone how much of it.

Btw, Thank you for this discussion I'm really enjoying it, and it is relevant to the topic I think, so hopefully the mods won't smack us and say, "Shut up!"

[Samantha Girl]

Very well put Suzanne!

But GenderBlender,

Guessing? Luck? Surely you jest? Once or twice in a lifetime sure, but to do it consistantly and professionally takes skill and talent. I'll use my field of stand-up comedy as an example. You're in a room with a couple hundred other people, you don't know them, they don't know you, but for the next 20 minutes you'll have to say things that'll make 90% of them laugh. It takes a special combination of timing, tone, inflection, and wit to accomplish this, not to mention being able to read your audience and get a feel for their moods, and dealing with drunken hecklers in a way that everyone will enjoy, and not make the situation tense. Ever seen "Showtime at the Apollo?" Where people get booed off the stage? Ask a comedian or musician on that stage how far luck and guessing takes them.

"guessing" implies that either you have the answer or you don't. It's not that simple, and honing an art can take many years. If, with your art you can express yourself skillfully, the emotion and sentiment in your work will resonate with someone. It takes a certain kind of intelligence (and business savy) to create a book or song or movie that millions around the world will enjoy. It may not be an intelligence of a sort that you can comprehend, but it's the reason that Mozart was called a genius.

And while yes, it is easier to become a successful engineer than an artist, I think that you misrepresent the amount of working artists out there. You see them all over TV, You hear them all on the radio, Their books are all over the subway, Their drawings and paintings are in restuarants, shopping malls, their character designs are in video games. I think that working artists are more common than lottery winners. There are more successful engineers because being a successful artist is MORE demanding, not less.

And I think that to a certain extent you prove MY point. The sciences require less creativity specifically because they are fact-based, and when an attempt at a creative solution fails, you can always go back to the drawing board. Numbers are always going to be numbers, after all. Musicians and actors don't have that safety net. The world of professional art whether in music, acting, ect. is very, VERY results driven, and can be extremely competitive, and I don't think you comprehend the even the kind of intelligence it takes, let alone how much of it.

Btw, Thank you for this discussion I'm really enjoying it, and it is relevant to the topic I think, so hopefully the mods won't smack us and say, "Shut up!"


AWESOME post girl! :D Art is literally EVERYWHERE, it's kinda underappreciated nowadays :(

[Leilani]

I work as a business development manager for a major food service chain. It is my job to aid in the operation and profitability of a number of different franchise locations as well as help develop previously untapped marketing elements for those owners to build and grow their business. I also ensure the franchises are operating within the parameters as set forth by the Franchisor to protect the brand integrity. Wow I feel like I am writing my resume here :)

[Juanita O]

I have been retired since May of 2008, the jobs I have had are auto parts counter, mechanic, Air Force where I work as a munitions maintenance specialist. After leaving the air force i worked for the air force as an aircraft mechanic (civilian) for 30 yrs. Retired and loving it.

[Billie Jean]

Nurse. Billie Jean

[DaisyG]

Mechanical and electrical engineer, 43 years designing and building a wide variety of electromechanical products. All capital goods, nothing for the consumer. Ought to be retired by now; but still having fun, still creating new things.

Daisy

[renee k]

Airline Pilot
Technical background:yt:

ME TOO! Airbus driver for a low cost airline.

[BarbiB]

Medical Device Engineer, CAD Designer, Toolmaker, Master mechanic

[Malori Cross]

In no particular order:

Artist
Truck driver
Commercial pilot
Chef
Mainframe Computer Operator
Writer
Father
Web site developer
Mailroom clerk
Stockboy
Transportation specialist
Book author
Auto mechanic
Social worker
Retail salesperson
Carpenter

My brain swings both ways!

[KayC]

Your vocations are so varied it's impossible to derive any conclusions other than you come from all walks of life! That is cool in itself...truck drivers, policemen, nurses, artists, engineers, what a varied group we have here! And some of you have listed about 30 vocations...makes me tired just thinking about it! LOL Anway...good to know you all!

[abigailf]

I work in the IT industry. I have been in engineering, sales, marketing and management. I was also in the finance industry as a broker.

I don't believe left or right brained controls our desire to be TG. Hoiwever, I think being dominate left or right will determine how good you look when dressed up.

[vspowers]

Computer programming, webmaster, building maintenance, boiler operator.

[pantyhoselover]

:yt:

ME TOO! Airbus driver for a low cost airline.

Renee,
I thought of dressing up as a flight attendant for halloween, but chickened out.
One can always fantasize.:)
PL

[Julieanne]

Teacher (school marm?)

[Jin Xer]

Secret agent. Disguised as a man.

Yes, that's right. I'm really a woman, disguised as a man, who likes to dress as a woman. It's so much more fun that way.
But don't tell anyone, 'cuz, you know, I'm a secret agent.
:heehee:

[CindyT]

computer programming/engineering, electrical engineering :)

[Alix]

Right now, I'm a lowly call center employee, trying to get back to college :sad:

[Tomara]

Heavy truck and equipment mechanic , 30 years worth this year , before that I drove truck for a couple of years when I got out of high school.

Tomara

[Stephanie Heplby]

IT Architect / Strategist
Sociologist of Technology
Graduate Student
Musician (Performer & Composer with actual published CDs... coincidence?)
Husband / Wife (depends on the day / mood)
Political Junkie
Occasional Artist

[Brenda's Friend]

Control Systems Engineer

There are a whole lot of us techies who CD. I also see that there are a lot of girls doing traditionally macho jobs. Have some of us hid their desires to be pretty by doing real manly jobs? Engineering and computer occupations are generally male dominated, albeit geeky, jobs.

Left brain/Right brain. I tend to be more logical in my life, but this desire to dress is the most illogical thing.

BF

[Denise01]

Now Retired"
Previously Commercial Bank Lending officer
and Owner / operator of a Commercial Campground

[Annaliese]

Work at a Universtiy teaching math.

Before that was a machanic. I know big change hirt my back and went back to school.

[IamSara]

I am an electrical engineer mostly do machine programming.
Sarah :rose2:

[charlen]

over the road truck driver and master carpenter:devil:

[MelanieCA]

I am a software developer

[MWCMDarlene]

In Alphabetical Order, I have been or currently am:

Associate (Walmart...worked in Sporting Goods)
Band Director (High School and Jr. High School)
Band Instrument Repairman
Clerk (with 7 to 11 Corporation)
Flagman with Highway Department
Furniture Mover and Packer
Gas/Oilfield Painter
Grocer (Clerk and Stocker)
Minister/Preacher
Music Minister
Music Teacher (Elementary)
Stockboy
Youth Minister

[ShannonIL]

I work on tier 2/3 help desk. Lots of techie stuff. Yay!

[Lidia_tv]

Interpreter/translator

[Caroline C]

Nice to hear there many fellow girls in the trades. Started out as a machinist. Now I'm in building automation controls and programming.

[Kelly Greene]

Maintenance electrician in a Manufacturing facility.
Working on an engineering degree ( I am half way to the striped hat :) )

[Tess]

Aircraft communications/navigation tech in the Air Force
Electronics tech for a large computer company
Computer programmer in aerospace
Manager
Consultant

Retired
Now a watercolor artist, addicted to travel, and volunteer

[CherylFlint]

P.I., retired, and constuction (project manager level).

[txrobinm]

college radio DJ
free lance musician and private lesson teacher
waiter
apartment application processor (background checks)
bank branch manager
elementary school teacher currently

[Joanne108]

I am just curious, if more CDers are left-brained or if it makes any difference. My SO is an artist and I've heard several others here are...just out of curiosity, what is your vocation? I'm wondering if being a CDer affected what you picked as a vocation (easier to dress, have long hair, etc.).

Just a note the left brain right brain thing is a myth see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Right_brain .
Oh yeah, I'm a research scientist.

[Ineta]

Translator

[Stephanie Miller]

Very interesting thread. I had to think about it. Yes, I used both sides of the brain to do so. :D
Male me: General Contractor, hunter, sports, loves my tools and boy toys! motorcycles, boats, quads, guns etc
Female me: I'd rather cook, sew, chat, shop and I am great with kids. I could see myself as an interior decorator if it was female professional.

I don't feel like doing male stuff when in girl mode. Not because I "know" how I should act - but because it's just how I feel. And vice-a-verse. Of course it's not a fine line as there is some overlap. (Love the girl look in my female cut wetsuit & I have camo girl clothes :heehee: )

[Sherry-Stephanie]

Retired from the Public Safety Field with rank 70-98

Recovered from a 4 year illness that left me bedridden and paralyzed 98-02

Landscape business owner96-00

Full Time college student04-05

Librarian at a University 04-07

Loss Prevention for a store under Saks,Inc. 05-07

Project Manager for a company that was a Federal Contractor to DHS

About to start an online business selling CD/TG related items

[Kim Grace]

Let's see, I am a full time student(C.J. Major), I work for a commercial cleaning company, Also I am a certified emergency telecommunicater, Oh and Just to pat my own back, I am a Eagle Scout! Can I get a shout out from any other Eagle Scouts?

-Kim