Grant helps Penn College ‘manufacture’ girls’ career exploration

A national foundation is aiding Pennsylvania College of Technology’s efforts to spark interest among high school girls in rewarding manufacturing careers.

Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs, the charitable foundation of the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association International, has provided a $2,500 grant for the college to host Thingamajig “Tinker-Belles,” a pre-college program for girls entering grades 9-12.

Registration for the overnight program – scheduled for July 16-20 – is open. The cost is $400 and covers all activities, meals and on-campus housing. Students who complete Thingamajig “Tinker-Belles” and eventually enroll at Penn College will be eligible to receive $1,000 off their tuition per year.

“Modern manufacturing is more brain than brawn,” said Kathy D. Chesmel, assistant dean of materials science and engineering technologies. “High-tech skills are in demand to shrink the skills gap that could eclipse 2 million unfilled jobs by the end of the decade. Manufacturing offers a wealth of rewarding opportunities that women aren’t taking advantage of.”

According to Census Bureau data, women comprise nearly half of the American workforce, but only 30% are employed in manufacturing. Women in manufacturing make 16% more than the median income for women workers.

“It’s common for our students graduating with a manufacturing-related associate or bachelor’s degree to have multiple job offers before commencement,” Chesmel said. “Their technical skills set them apart in the eyes of employers. We want more women to enjoy such opportunities. Introducing girls to manufacturing’s career possibilities through this pre-college program is an important step in doing that.”

During Thingamajig “Tinker-Belles,” participants will receive hands-on experience in engineering design, plastics engineering, machining and automated manufacturing, and welding engineering technology.

College faculty will lead workshops in the school’s state-of-the-art labs. Sessions will be complemented by guest speakers and tours of regional manufacturers, including West Pharmaceutical Services Inc.

More information about Thingamajig “Tinker-Belles" can be requested by email. To learn about other summer offerings, visit the Pre-College Programs page.

For information on Penn College’s various manufacturing degrees and other majors offered by the School of Engineering Technologies, call 570-327-4520.

Penn College is a national leader in applied technology education. Email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.