College in Minneapolis offers program to train women for jobs in trades
MINNEAPOLIS (CBS, KYMA/KECY) - Jobs like mechanics, electricians and welders have long been dominated by men. But now, there are several industries and programs across the country trying to bring more women into the fold.
Working with her hands feels natural for Rachel Fulgham. The former baker loves to create from scratch, but a few years ago, she traded in flour and ovens for steel and mills.
"And I have the program made so that whole chunk of material that you kind of see right there will eventually be cut off," Fulgham shared.
She's learning to be a CNC machinist at Minneapolis college. They program machines to cut, shape and design parts to exact specifications.
"My fiancée is a machinist and so for years, hearing him talk about his day, I thought I could do that," Fulgham said.
She's now doing it, but this semester, she's the only woman in her class.
"It would have been nice to have other women in there, and made me feel less alone and less singled out," Fulgham expressed.
According to the Labor Department, only about 4% of machinists are women.
To spark some change: There's a new pilot program at the college, looking to recruit women for a number of male-dominated trades.
The program helps pay for tuition, transportation, and even childcare.
"If your primary concern is cost or affordability, or going into to debt to finance your education, this program will literally remove that obstacle," said Vincent Thomas, Academic Dean at Minneapolis College.
Adrianna Affolter used to be a student at Minneapolis College. Now, she a full time CNC machinist at Johnstech.
"I love my job...there is no excuses. If you want to do it, go for it," Affolter declared.
Already following Affolter's path is Fulgham.
"I'm really looking forward to just being part of the CNC industry and doing it full time for hopefully the rest of my life," Fulgram remarked.
Her internship will turn into a job, and more importantly, a career.
