Considering joining the field

I'm considering joining the industry possibly as a part time helper just to get my feet wet and see if I would enjoy being a tech. My two big concerns are that I won't be taken seriously when I try to apply at a local company because frankly I am a woman and I am in my 40s, in Texas. For context: my father is a former NICET Level IV and current APS holder, and he has taught me how to view a little of blue prints. So, please give it to me straight - am I in for a lot of "You are a woman and you are old" type responses ?