()– Women are a large, untapped talent source for the manufacturing industry.

According to Deloitte, APICS, and The Manufacturing Institute, women made up 47% of America’s labor force in 2016, but only 29% of the workforce in manufacturing.

“Many women don’t realize the possibilities for personal and professional satisfaction and a stable career in the manufacturing industry,”Julie Davis is the director of workforce development for the Association of Equipment Manufacturing. “Women who need to reposition their post COVID-19 careers should step forward into manufacturing.”

These are some reasons for women to consider a career working in manufacturing:

– Financial: The wages for women working in manufacturing are often higher than the salaries paid to traditional female-filled roles.

– Education: There are many companies that offer financial assistance to women who want to retrain for jobs in the manufacturing industry. Due to the many job losses experienced by women in service and hospitality industries due to the coronavirus pandemic (and others), the manufacturing industry provides a chance for them learn new skills, and begin a new, sustainable career.

Practical. Many jobs in manufacturing that were once more demanding in size and strength are no longer available. The adoption of technology has created new high-tech jobs that offer equal opportunities for both male and female workers.

Inclusive. The manufacturing industry is committed diversity and inclusion. To reflect changing demographics in the industry, safety equipment now comes in women’s sizes. To help women get into the manufacturing sector and provide support and solidarity with women in the field, there are apprenticeship programs available all over the United States.

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) is an organization that supports North American manufacturers of construction and agricultural machinery. It offers four tips to women who are interested in careers in manufacturing.

Look around. Find out where manufacturing facilities are located near you and look at their job listings and training opportunities.

Look national. Connect with the National Center for Women’s Equity in Employment and Apprenticeship to get support for your job hunt.

– Look for help. Local job centers can provide information on training and jobs, as well as housing and child care.

Online tools available. AEM provides an online toolkit. www.aem.org/workforce-solutions#toolkitFor more information on the career opportunities in manufacturing, click here