I don't judge by appearances so I try not to fall into that rabbit-hole, but I have gotten that vibe (regardless of what I try to do) from people back in school and college.

And let me tell, they were definitely racist, especially toward me.

I don't know about the people you met in the trades, so to speak. Hopefully, for you, it's just a vibe and not an actual, well, reality.

(Disclaimer: Not saying you're judging by appearances and I get the fear completely.)