Women to take part in exploration of technical careers at East Campus

Dozens of women who want to learn about technical-career opportunities long associated with the male gender will get that chance on Thursday, April 18 when Amarillo College hosts “Women in Industry” on the East Campus.

The event is from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and participants will engage in intensive career exploration (specifically, from 10:50 a.m. until 12:15 p.m.) relevant to pursuit of technical careers.

AC programs to be highlighted include aviation, welding, law enforcement, fire protection, automotive technology, auto collision, diesel mechanics, truck driving, machining, and industrial technology.

Additionally, women representing industry partners and affiliates such as Potter County Sheriff's Department, Sierra Nevada Corporation, EFS Storm Shelters, and Los Alamos National Laboratories will provide insights about their respective industries and, specifically, their experiences as women in industry.

“Historically, male-dominated fields that require two-year technical degrees and certificates, like automotive, machining and so many others, offer high-paying jobs and, in some cases, faster career advancement than non-technical two-year degrees,” said Ryan Francis, coordinator of AC’s Workforce Innovation Network.

“Amarillo College fully supports and empowers women to explore and pursue these non-traditional technical degrees and career paths,” he said.

Attendees at AC’s “Women in Industry” event – which is free and reached capacity during the pre-registration process – will have a chance to get their hands dirty at each of the career-specific stations on their tour of the East Campus. They also will be provided transportation and lunch.

The day’s activities begin at 8:30 a.m. with registration and a brief welcome in the College Union Building on the Washington Street Campus. A shuttle will depart for the East Campus at 9:30 a.m., and tours of the East Campus programs are from 9:50 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. Lunch and a panel discussion featuring the guests from industry will be from 12:15-1:30 p.m. The shuttle will then return participants to Washington Street.

For more information about AC’s “Women in Industry” event, please contact Crystal Hernandez at clbrown@actx.edu or 806-335-4351.