As industries struggle to fill skilled trades positions, more women are seizing opportunities in male-dominated fields. The upcoming Women in Industry Conference aims to connect women with high-paying, in-demand jobs.
Women are advancing in skilled trades as companies face challenges finding sufficient workers. The forthcoming Women in Industry Conference, organized by Galveston College on April 1, aims to present women with career opportunities in petrochemicals, construction, biotechnology, healthcare, and avionics.
“Many women overlook these areas, yet the demand is significant, and the compensation is outstanding,” stated Vera Jasper-Lewis, Dean of Technical and Professional Education at Galveston College. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that entry-level salaries for skilled trades workers begin at $40,000, while experienced professionals earn an average of $77,000 annually.
Aaliyah Malveaux, 19, is among the increasing cohort of women pursuing careers in welding. Initially drawn to engineering, she discovered that welding enables her to merge creativity with technical expertise. “Many individuals believe that artists and welders are fundamentally different, yet there is significant overlap,” Malveaux stated.
James Love, the Welding Program Director at Galveston College, has observed an increase in female students. “The number of women in our program has significantly increased,” he stated. "Women often excel as welders due to their keen attention to detail."
Malveaux is enthusiastic about what lies ahead. "It’s preparing me so I won’t have to concern myself with where I’ll be in 15 years," she said.
The conference, organized by Galveston College and eight other community colleges from the Texas Gulf Coast, will be held at the Moody Gardens Convention Center in Galveston.
