This guide for women interested in nontraditional occupations (NTOs) describes nontraditional occupations and offers suggestions for deciding whether an NTO is appropriate for the individual. The need for women in NTOs is first addressed. Rewards are considered, and a checklist is provided to test for readiness to choose an NTO. These myths regarding women in NTOs are described: certain jobs are only for men or women, women lack strength for "men's work," women lack temperament for "men's work," women cause disruptive sexual relationships on worksite, and women cause employers additional expense. Real barriers to success in an NTO are outlined--both internal (sex stereotyping, lack of self-confidence, age, concern for femininity) and external (finances; child care; vocational/academic preparation; social attitudes; harassment, isolation, and discrimination). Some general areas of the traditionally male occupations are overviewed, including engineering and science technology, industrial production, mechanics and repairer occupations, and construction trades. Sketches of sample jobs in each area cover job duties, job environment, required interests and abilities, training needed for entry-level position, occupational outlook, benefits and advancement opportunities, average national starting salaries, and some similar jobs. Suggestions are offered for finding training and succeeding in training or on the job. (YLB)