Empowering Women in Trades: CNM's 5th Annual Summit Highlights Opportunities

Celebrating Women in Trades: A Call to Action

On Saturday, Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) will proudly host its 5th Annual Women in Trades Summit from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This event is designed to shine a spotlight on the array of high-quality career opportunities available for women in the skilled trades sector, including fields such as welding, electrical work, carpentry, and advanced manufacturing. With a growing demand for skilled labor across New Mexico and the nation, the summit represents a vital opportunity for women to connect with rewarding career paths that may have previously seemed out of reach.

As stated by Joy Forehand, CNM's Vice President of Workforce and Community Success, "The Summit provides a space for the trades to be highlighted and for women to learn about the readily available, high-paying careers in the trades." This initiative is an attempt to break traditional barriers and encourage women to consider roles in sectors often dominated by male counterparts.

The ongoing workforce shortage in the trades makes it an opportune moment for women to delve into these well-compensated professions. Many women may already possess the skills or interests suitable for trades work, such as problem-solving and hands-on creation, which are critical components in these fields. Forehand emphasizes, "These are rewarding and meaningful careers, and they're critical to the success of our infrastructure and economy."

Awareness of trades as a viable career option for women is gradually increasing. Recent statistics reveal a 14 percent rise in female enrollment in trades programs at CNM over the past five years. Currently, women account for 21 percent of all students pursuing trades-related studies at the college, a figure that underscores the importance of events like the upcoming summit.

Attendees will have the chance to interact with over 30 employers, all eager to share their available career opportunities in various trades. Representatives from CNM will also be present to discuss the college's programs, funding options, and other support services. Moreover, community partners will offer vital information regarding assistance with childcare and transportation for prospective students.

In addition to networking and information sessions, the summit will feature hands-on demonstrations where participants can gain insight into the practical aspects of trades work. CNM's state-of-the-art trades labs will be open for tours, allowing attendees to explore welding, carpentry, electrical work, and mechatronics up close.

With the right educational resources and community support, women have a tremendous opportunity to enter the skilled trades workforce, an area increasingly recognized for its stability and potential for growth. By participating in events like the Women in Trades Summit, attendees can take the first step toward carving out successful, fulfilling careers in fields crucial to our society's functionality.

Overall, this summit not only aims to inform but also to inspire and empower women to envision themselves in trades careers. It serves as a reminder that with the right training and support, the skilled trades are accessible and rewarding options for women seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.