A panel of thriving professionals shared their experiences in paving the way for future generations of women in skilled trades at the inaugural EmpowHER event held recently at the Auburn Hills campus.
The event, organized by OCC’s Engineering, Manufacturing and Industrial Technology (EMIT), featured panelists representing computer numerical control (CNC) machinists, electricians, engineers and more.
“Everyone in attendance had a great time and learned a ton,” said attendee Dayonte Grimes, Career and Technical Education Supervisor from Lapeer Community Schools. “It really showcased a broad range of possibilities for young ladies wanting to get into the trades industry as well as shed some light on common misconceptions that many people have.”
The panel discussed topics like the shifting landscape of skilled trades, growing opportunities and the importance of diversity and inclusion. Panelists were:
- Asia Emery, CNC Machinist, Williams International
- Catherine Withrow, Lean Manager, Barton Malow
- Cynasure Ross, Experimental Auto Journeyperson, General Motors
- Mimi Nguyen, Lead Design Release Engineer, General Motors
- Mary Polly, Electrician, Stellantis
“It was an honor and privilege to share my experience and journey in the trades,” Ross said. “I am inspired by the many follow-up conversations I had with attendees and am confident a dynamic impact was made by our discussion. Hopefully, dreams were nurtured, and doubts were allayed.”
With more than 90 registrants, OCC’s EMIT team was grateful for the opportunity to influence many young women considering a career in skilled trades.
“I know there was a lot of inspiration in the room, and I am confident we will see future students as a result that may not have previously considered some of these career paths," said Joe Petrosky, OCC Vice Chancellor for Economic & Workforce Development. “Everyone I spoke with was so enthused and complimentary with what they heard and experienced.”
View photos from EmpowerHer event.
About OCC
Offering nearly 100 degrees and certificates, OCC is Michigan’s largest multi-campus community college and No. 1 transfer institution in the state. The College provides academic and career training and enriching experiences; to empower students to reach their potential and enhance our community. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. A seven-person Board of Trustees governs OCC. Board members are elected on a non-partisan, at-large basis, serve as volunteers and are not paid. Mission statement: OCC is committed to empowering our students to succeed and advancing our community. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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