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The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says although women
make up almost 47% of the workforce, they have been and
remain substantially underrepresented in professions such
as manufacturing, where women only account for 30% of
workers in the industry as of 2017.
According to the Census Bureau, it's a percentage that hasn't
changed much since the 1970s, peaking at 33.2% in 1990.
These jobs now rely on advanced technology, and workers
with STEM skills.
For women who do enter the field of manufacturing,
potential benefits – literally and figuratively – are promising.
The 2018 IndustryWeek Salary Survey shows an average
manufacturing salary in New England, with 8.5% respondents
weighing in, is $122,000 while 69% of overall respondents said
they are satisfied with their job in the field.
Here are three women in Connecticut who came to the field
in different ways and found reward in manufacturing work
and the opportunity it offers.
From making p za to earning a master's degree
It may have taken Katie Barry a little while to figure out her
path – a path ultimately leading her to progressive metal-
stamping company Marion Manufacturing in Cheshire. But
she's found her calling in manufacturing, and it has helped
guide her course in graduate education, as well.
Barry had been working at a pizza place, she said, when a
Although they comprise still a
disproportionately small part of the
workforce,
Connecticut women have carved
out careers in the industry
By Susan Shalhoub
Have the caption read: Katie Berry is one of eight women at Cheshire-based
Marion Manufacturing.
PHOTO
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RJ
Larussa
