Girls get a glimpse at future careers

    PRESQUE ISLE – A hands-on, daylong event designed to encourage girls to consider careers in fields traditionally dominated by men will bring together nearly 100 participants from schools throughout Aroostook County Wednesday, April 25 on the Northern Maine Community College campus.
    The fourth annual TNT (Tools ‘N Trades) conference will feature sessions ranging from carpentry and metal fabrication to firefighting and bridge building, all providing an opportunity for the girls to experience some aspect of the profession through a practical exercise.
    “We want to give girls a hands-on workshop experience to spark their interest and/or raise awareness about a career field that they may not have previously considered, as well as provide female role modes – women who can lead by example, having already succeeded in pursuing work that traditionally is viewed as ‘man’s work,’” said Suzanne Senechal-Jandreau, regional manager of the Central Aroostook office of Women, Work and Community, a statewide organization committed to improving the economic lives of Maine women and their families.
    WWC, NMCC, the Maine Department of Transportation, Women Unlimited, the Maine Career Center, local contractors, local school representatives, and other interested community partners comprise the Aroostook Coalition for Women and Girls in Trades and Technology, the sponsors of TNT.
    The focus of the coalition is to raise awareness of and provide support and opportunity for women and girls who pursue or are pursuing non-traditional careers in trades and technology fields.
    The conference is a free, one-day event for Aroostook County girls in grades eight through 12. Funding for the activity is made possible through monies provided by Louisiana Pacific and the Maine Department of Transportation. Prizes given to participants are donated by local contractors, educational institutions and other organizations.
    Aside from participating in two workshop sessions, participants will be treated to a luncheon and fashion show featuring women currently employed in non-traditional fields. A panel discussion, featuring several women working in trade and technical occupations, will round out the day.
    The conference is generously supported by the NMCC campus community, which serves as a host site for the event, and is a featured activity in its “Awesome April” celebration of community college month.
    “We are so pleased to join with other members of the Aroostook Coalition for Women and Girls in Trades and Technology to make this important event possible. As a post-secondary education institution and a vital resource for employers in this region, we want to do everything possible to showcase to students and members of the community what educational and career options are available to them,” said Jason Parent, NMCC director of development and college relations.
    Conference registration will begin at 8 a.m. in the Edmunds conference center. Following an official welcome, participants will break into the first of two sessions focusing on a specific career. A second session will follow, providing the girls an opportunity to experience a second profession.
    Individuals seeking more information on the TNT conference or interested in participating should contact Senechal-Jandreau at 764-0050.