Ask QC: Discrimination at Work

Dear QC,

My problem is one mainly of career choice, or rather should I say it’s prejudice and discrimination against me being gay in the very homophobic industry in which I am currently employed.

I’ve always been a very rough, masculine type, very much into the outdoors and sports and so naturally gravitated towards subjects which eventually led to the career in which I now find myself (Heavy Industrial Engineering). The thing is, when I was choosing education courses that pretty much pre-determined this career path, I hadn’t really clearly defined or accepted myself as a gay man at that time.

Now in my mid-thirties I find myself trapped in a very homophobic environment, and not being able to be ‘out’ at work, I find it very frustrating, especially having to listen to homophobic ‘jokes’ and comments. At 34, it may seem a little late for a career change, but it would be good to know what industries and businesses are more likely to be open, accepting and gay friendly so that I don’t make the same mistake twice. Where I am right now, as a single man I’m not earmarked for promotion, and its been said many times they only want to promote married men with kids – in any case I’m fed up where I am now. I do accept myself as a gay man and I’m out at home and with my friends and family but I know coming out at work, and particularly the homophobic environment I now work in would be a complete disaster – its easier to move on than be subjected to that hate and torment.
I realize that there will always be prejudice of some degree in any work place, but if I’m going to make this move I want to at least be somewhere that doesn’t have any issues with your sexuality and its just based on performance. Any tips on a career change to a more accepting industry or business would be really helpful and much appreciated.
Many thanks,
John.
PS: I guess you guys at QC don’t have this problem at work right? LOL!

Indeed John, our work place is the probably the least homophobic (and fun) place anyone could wish to work! So dear QC readers, what advice would you give John in making that career change? Which jobs, businesses or industries are the most gay friendly? Please feel free to share your own experiences and advice to help him in the comments section.
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