“We all remember those “aha!” moments in our lives, when we see, hear or learn something that had never really entered our consciousness before. Well, that’s Women Can Do – a day-long journey of “aha!” moments, because it entices every girl to do and try things they’ve never had a chance to experience before,” says Jen Oldham, Executive Director of Vermont Works for Women. “Beyond having that experience, they also meet women who are successful and making a living in these fields. The whole day is about turning gender stereotypes on their head – it is thrilling to witness!”
The absence of role models and lack of exposure to career options are two key factors that prevent women and girls from advancing in career fields where they are currently underrepresented. Additionally, women in Vermont tend to dominate fields where wages are significantly lower than fields dominated by men. This has serious economic implications for women; 43% of VT women who are working full time do not make enough money to meet basic living expenses. Vermont girls need exposure to a wide range of careers and activities to inspire them to think outside the box, and expand what they believe they are capable of and what is available to them.
At Women Can Do, over 100 professionals, business people, educators, and public service providers will provide their time and expertise to engage girls in activities that include moving a SUV with a grip hoist, building motors, driving a robot, changing the air filter on a car, web design, climbing a fire ladder, solar installation, and much more.
“The goal of Women Can Do is to provide a fun, safe, engaging environment where participants feel comfortable taking a risk and trying new things,” says Alison Lamagna, Director of Career Education and Gender Equity for Vermont Works for Women. “The result is a greater understanding of all the options available to them as they begin to think about careers and their futures. The hands-on nature of every workshop and activity station at Women Can Do provides an empowering experience where participants walk away with a greater confidence in themselves.”
Women Can Do is generously supported by the J. Warren & Lois McClure Foundation, the Vermont Agency of Education, Vermont Mutual Insurance Group, Vermont Gas, Vermont Fuel Dealers Association, NorthCountry Federal Credit Union, Vermont Department of Labor and many additional corporate and individual supporters in the Vermont community.
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