Woodworking Workshop Introduces Youth to the Skilled Trades

This summer, Girls Inc. of Alameda County launched its Women in Trades Pilot Program, introducing high school girls to career pathways in the skilled trades. The program kicked off with woodworking workshops facilitated by the Retention Apprenticeship Program (RAMP) and led by union carpenter Olwyn Brown and an all-women crew of carpentry professionals.

Under their guidance, high schoolers learned how to safely use tools and build their own carpentry project, choosing between a step stool, bookends, pencil holder, or phone stand. For many, it was their first time working with power tools and engaging in building projects. Seeing women leading the space, both teaching and modeling careers in the trades, was a powerful shift in perspective.

“It was empowering to see women doing this kind of work,” one participant shared. “It made me feel like I could do it too.”

The workshops kicked off a year-long series designed to expand students’ exposure to

the skilled trades through hands-on learning, career panels, and mentorship.

Providing early exposure to the skilled trades supports Girls Inc. of Alameda County’s broader workforce development initiative to equip girls with the skills and confidence to pursue diverse postsecondary and career pathways—including direct entry into the

workforce.

This summer alone, more than 90 youth and young adults are engaging in workforce development opportunities through Girls Inc.—64 high school students in internship placements and/or participating in skilled trades projects, and 27 young adults serving as apprentices in our Expanded Learning Apprenticeship Program.    

You can help expand access to programs like the Women in Trades Project by investing in us today!

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