Summary
In Colorado, women are making significant strides in the traditionally male-dominated construction industry, with approximately 37,000 women employed in various trades. The Emily Griffith Foundation is celebrating these achievements by hosting its 3rd annual Celebration of Women in Trades luncheon on National Apprenticeship Day, featuring inspiring stories from women like Ashlinn Mast, a sheet metal apprentice, and Daesha Ottem, a licensed electrical journeyman and project manager.
This event highlights the importance of apprenticeships as a pathway for women to gain valuable skills and confidence in their careers. With only 0.3% of the state's craft workforce being women, initiatives like this are crucial in promoting diversity and encouraging more women to pursue careers in the trades, ultimately enriching the entire workforce landscape.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story underscores the vital role registered apprenticeship programs play in diversifying the workforce and providing women with the opportunity to thrive in trades. By showcasing successful female apprentices, it demonstrates how earn-and-learn models can empower individuals, build skills, and foster confidence in a field that traditionally lacks gender diversity.