Journeyperson vs. Journeyman — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 26, 2024
Journeyperson is a gender-neutral term for a skilled worker who has completed an apprenticeship, whereas journeyman traditionally refers to a male skilled worker.
Difference Between Journeyperson and Journeyman
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Journeyperson is the inclusive, modern term used to describe a skilled worker, regardless of gender, who has completed the necessary training and apprenticeship in a particular trade or craft. This term emphasizes skill and accomplishment without implying gender. On the other hand, journeyman is the traditional term that has been used historically to refer to a male worker who has completed his apprenticeship and is fully qualified to work in a specific trade.
The evolution from journeyman to journeyperson reflects broader societal changes towards gender inclusivity and equality in the workplace. While journeyman once encompassed all skilled workers in various trades, the term now is being replaced by journeyperson to foster a more inclusive environment that acknowledges the contributions of all genders.
Both journeypersons and journeymen possess a high level of expertise in their field, having completed an apprenticeship program that typically lasts between 3 to 4 years. The main distinction lies not in their skill level or job function, but in the language used to describe their professional status, with journeyperson serving as a more contemporary and inclusive alternative.
In terms of recognition and credentials, there is no difference between a journeyperson and a journeyman. Both terms signify a level of proficiency and qualification that allows the individual to work independently, often leading to opportunities for higher wages and more complex projects.
The shift towards using journeyperson in official documents, job postings, and professional discussions underscores the importance of language in shaping perceptions and promoting equality within the trades. This change helps to ensure that all individuals feel represented and valued in their professions, regardless of gender.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A skilled worker of any gender who has completed an apprenticeship.
Traditionally, a male skilled worker who has completed an apprenticeship.
Gender Implication
Gender-neutral, inclusive term.
Implies male gender.
Societal Context
Reflects modern shifts towards inclusivity and equality.
Reflects traditional gender roles in the workforce.
Skill Level
High level of expertise in a trade.
High level of expertise in a trade.
Recognition
Qualified to work independently in a trade.
Qualified to work independently in a trade.
Compare with Definitions
Journeyperson
A skilled and qualified worker in any trade, regardless of gender.
After completing her apprenticeship, she became a certified journeyperson electrician.
Journeyman
A male skilled worker who has completed apprenticeship training.
He worked as a journeyman carpenter for several years before starting his own business.
Journeyperson
Reflects modern inclusivity in trade professions.
The company’s training program proudly graduates both journeymen and journeypersons.
Journeyman
Achieved through rigorous training and examination.
His journeyman status was the result of years of hard work and dedication to learning his trade.
Journeyperson
Recognized through apprenticeship completion.
Achieving journeyperson status requires passing rigorous trade exams.
Journeyman
Historically common term in trades.
Traditionally, journeymen were highly respected in their communities for their skills.
Journeyperson
Holds equal qualifications as a journeyman.
As a journeyperson, he can now work independently on advanced plumbing projects.
Journeyman
Reflects traditional gender roles in professions.
Journeyman used to be the standard term for all skilled tradespeople, regardless of their actual gender.
Journeyperson
Focuses on skill and achievement.
Her journeyperson certification opened up numerous job opportunities.
Journeyman
Qualified to work independently.
As a journeyman, he is fully qualified to undertake complex electrical installations.
Journeyperson
A journeyman or journeywoman.
Journeyman
A journeyman is a worker, skilled in a given building trade or craft, who has successfully completed an official apprenticeship qualification. Journeymen are considered competent and authorized to work in that field as a fully qualified employee.
Journeyman
One who has fully served an apprenticeship in a trade or craft and is a qualified worker in another's employ.
Journeyman
An experienced and competent but undistinguished worker or athlete
"Most scientists are semiliterate journeymen with respect to the humanities" (Edward O. Wilson).
Journeyman
A tradesman who has served an apprenticeship and is employed by a master tradesman.
Journeyman
A competent but undistinguished tradesman, especially one who works, and is paid by the day.
Journeyman
(sports) A player who plays on many different teams during the course of his career.
The Los Angeles Lakers added journeyman forward Bob McAdoo to their roster in hopes that he could help them win a title.
Journeyman
Formerly, a man hired to work by the day; now, commonly, one who has finished an apprenticeship and is a competent worker in a handicraft or trade, but has not received recognition as a master; - distinguished from apprentice and from master workman.
I have thought some of nature's journeymen had made men, and not made them well.
Journeyman
A competent and experienced worker who performs adequately but without a high level of expertise or imagination.
Journeyman
A skilled worker who practices some trade or handicraft
Common Curiosities
What does journeyperson mean?
Journeyperson refers to a skilled worker who has completed their apprenticeship in a trade, irrespective of gender.
How does one become a journeyperson?
Becoming a journeyperson typically involves completing a formal apprenticeship program, which includes on-the-job training and often some form of classroom education, followed by passing a trade-specific examination.
Are journeypersons paid more than apprentices?
Yes, journeypersons typically earn higher wages than apprentices due to their higher skill level and qualifications.
What types of trades have journeypersons?
Many skilled trades have journeypersons, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, masons, and mechanics, among others.
Is the journeyperson qualification recognized internationally?
While the qualification is widely recognized, specific requirements and the formal title may vary by country and region.
Does the term journeyperson apply to all industries?
The term is mainly used in the context of skilled trades and crafts, though its principles of skill and qualification can apply broadly.
Is there any difference in the skill level between a journeyperson and a journeyman?
No, both terms indicate the same level of skill and qualification within a trade; the difference lies in the language used to describe the worker.
How has the introduction of "journeyperson" impacted the trades?
The term promotes gender inclusivity and reflects evolving societal values, potentially attracting a more diverse workforce to the trades.
How is journeyperson status verified?
Status is verified through certificates and credentials awarded after completing an apprenticeship program and passing any required examinations.
Can journeypersons specialize further in their trade?
Yes, journeypersons can specialize in specific areas of their trade, often through additional training and certification.
Why is the term journeyperson preferred over journeyman?
Journeyperson is preferred for its inclusivity, reflecting a commitment to equality and diversity in the workforce by not implying gender.
Can a journeyperson hire apprentices?
Yes, journeypersons are often qualified to train and supervise apprentices in their trade.
Can a woman be a journeyman?
While traditionally journeyman referred to males, in practice today, the term can apply to any skilled worker who completes an apprenticeship, though "journeyperson" is more appropriate for women.
What challenges do journeypersons face in their careers?
Challenges can include keeping up with technological advancements, navigating employment fluctuations, and maintaining certification requirements.
What are the benefits of achieving journeyperson status?
Benefits include higher wages, greater job opportunities, and the ability to work independently or own a business within the trade.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
