Amarillo College event empowers women in technical careers

AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — Amarillo College recently hosted an event aimed at encouraging women to explore technical careers such as HVAC, welding, and construction.

The initiative, known as "Women in Industry," provided an opportunity for an estimated 120 young women to meet with college instructors and gain insight into these fields.

Mackenzie Leach, a student, emphasized the importance of such events for women entering male-dominated professions.

"I know a lot of girls struggle with being in male-dominated professions," Leach said. "My first year I was the only girl in the class and then we had a girl my second and third year, but she ended up dropping the class. But it's definitely hard, but any girl can do anything."

Welding instructor Levi Plummer highlighted the value of firsthand knowledge for the participants.

"It's very beneficial for them to see people in the industry now and what they have had to overcome or what they have to deal with on a daily basis," Plummer said.

Despite the male dominance in technical jobs and trades, Plummer noted that women often excel in certain positions.

"Females tend to be more detail-oriented, so they catch onto things a little bit quicker, and that's very good that we have them coming in and have interest in industry careers that are detail-oriented," he said.

The event also featured a panel of Amarillo College graduates who are currently working in local technical fields, providing further inspiration and guidance for the attendees.