Recently we hosted a fun and educational event, Women in Trades Day, that provided a positive outlet for youth to learn about a variety of careers directly from professionals within each field.

This event was a meet and greet with professionals from diverse careers created to help expose youth to different career opportunities that they may not be familiar with. Our after-school program youth had the opportunity during this event to visit different trade stations and learn how they can join each particular field.

The Holyoke Fire Department, Sherwood Auto Performance, and LiftTruck Parts & Service, Inc. joined us for the event providing insight into their career path and what their day to day looks like.

“Women in Trades Day was created during the pandemic to introduce our youth to fields that are traditionally dominated by men. Now, we are able to offer this experience in-person, giving youth a chance to get hands-on experience and see themselves in positions they may never have thought of,” said Ana Gerena, Special Projects and Volunteerism Manager at Girls Inc. “Providing girls and trans youth opportunities like these are so important in expanding the workforce.”

Executive Director Suzanne Parker visited Mass Appeal to talk about the importance of girls being exposed to diverse careers at a young age. You can watch her segment here.

And you learn more about the event, which was covered by 22News, here.