Segmentation and gender occupational segregation within an industrial labor market: The radio manufacturing industry in philadelphia, 1926–1935

Abstract

Industrial and occupational differentiation and gender occupational segregation are important bases of labor market segmentation. Case studies of labor markets of specific industries advance understanding of labor market segmentation and gender occupational segregation and their consequences. This paper, based on a reanalysis of work history data gathered by Palmer and Stoflet (1938), examines differentiation in the labor market of the radio manufacturing industry in Philadelphia from 1926 to 1935. The analysis suggests the existence of three distinct “submarkets” based upon occupational skill level and gender. Characteristics of each submarket are discussed. Additional findings and implications for further research are presented.