Women’s Resource Center Hosts Info Session on Women in Manufacturing

May 14, 2021 – Sarasota

According to a recent Deloitte study, skills gaps in the manufacturing industry could leave over 2 million high-wage jobs unfilled by 2030, costing the U.S. economy over $1 trillion. The report indicates manufacturers are looking for new and creative strategies to recruit talent, including reaching out to more diverse workers, especially women and minorities. Women represent only a small percentage of positions within this industry that is growing fast in our Sarasota/Manatee region. To help close this skills gap, the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) is partnering with local manufacturers to offer a free online information session Wednesday, May 26, from noon to 1 p.m. The session is part of WRC’s monthly Career Connections program that links women to quality jobs and funded training programs. Participants can attend by phone or computer and will be able to ask questions via a chatbox. Those interested can register at www.mywrc.org/manufacturing or call (941) 256-9721 for more information. 

Panelists include representatives from PGT Innovations, a window company, and ASO, which specializes in first aid products. They will share details about various positions available at their organizations, including those in marketing, machine operation, sales, and production. Entry-level jobs with no experience offer wages of $15/hour depending on the shift, with additional on-the-job training provided. 

Women currently working in manufacturing also will provide first-hand testimonials about their experience in this historically male-dominated sector and share their stories of support and success. 

“Women have always been a valuable part of manufacturing,” shares Sherrie Collins, a Group Leader for PGT Innovations. “The difference is that there are so many more opportunities now for women to advance to higher positions and make a successful career in manufacturing than there were in the past. Women bring balance and a new perspective to these primarily male environments, and the manufacturing industry is better because of it!”

For individuals interested in exploring their career options, WRC’s Career Connections webinars are a great way to learn about the various pathways available in our community. FREE Career Coaching appointments are available to help people begin their journey to a new job. To learn more about this Career Connections information session or other services available at WRC, please call 941-256-9721 or visit mywrc.org.