Paul Forsyth with The Niagara Falls Review covered the Niagara Catholic District School Board’s 17th annual Technological Skills Competition on March 4, in which Niagara College played a unique role.
NC hosted a concurrent event targeting female students in grades 9 to 12, integrating them within the competition and exposing them to careers in the skilled trades and technology. The Young Women’s Career Exploration Conference gave 200 high school students an opportunity to network with accomplished women in a variety of traditionally male-dominated fields. From a panel discussion, mentorship lunch and many hands-on, experiential sessions coordinated by the College, female students had the chance to explore many pathways to a career in the trades and technology.
Niagara College welding technology student Samantha McIlravey comments on the “eye for detail” and precision that women bring to the skilled trades.
NC’s Pam Skinner, senior vice-president of Corporate Services, explained in her welcome speech that inspiring more women to consider science, technology and skilled trades careers is crucial for the economy.
Skinner said, “Technology occupations … are among the highest paying and fastest growing professions. Women who don’t explore these options may be closing the door to a talented career that they can so excel in … We’ve seen study after study that shows greater diversity with highly skilled staff strengthens innovation and performance within companies. That means companies are looking for talented young women to be part of their organizations. … They need your talent, your ideas and your creativity.”
Read the full March 4 story at this link.
