By Bishop State Community College,
Manufacture Alabama is excited to announce the launch of Girls Learning About Manufacturing (GLAM), a program designed to create interest in manufacturing careers amongst the next generation of women in the workforce.
In conjunction with the Alabama Community College System, WiM Alabama, and member companies throughout the state, Manufacture Alabama is excited to launch an engaging and hands-on program that offers female students an opportunity to connect with women in the industry and to deepen their understanding of the job opportunities that exist in manufacturing. The launch of GLAM corresponds with Manufacturing Day, a day for manufacturers to energize a future pipeline of skilled workers.
“We have a responsibility to our members to do our part in delivering results-driven workforce development solutions,” said George Clark, Manufacture Alabama president. “GLAM gives us the opportunity to deliver results while strengthening our community partnerships and aligning with our Diversify initiative that’s critical to the future success of the manufacturing industry.”
Manufacture Alabama’s emphasis on GLAM is part of a solution for member companies seeking to fill high-skilled, high-tech and high-paying jobs over the next 10 years. Women comprise 47 percent of the total labor force, but only 26 percent of the manufacturing workforce. The overarching goal of GLAM is to make a direct and positive impact on that statistic.
GLAM will collaborate with Bishop State Community College and industry partner Canfor Southern Pine this month for the program’s first event which will be held virtually.
“We are truly excited about this partnership with Manufacture Alabama. GLAM will provide an opportunity for us to encourage females of our community to pursue manufacturing careers,” said Dr. Lawrence Brandyburg, Bishop State Community College interim president. “Building confident, female leaders in career and life success will produce systemic change and diversify our workforce, therefore adding value to our community.”
“GLAM is an important initiative that will not only diversify future generations of our industry and workforce, but will also provide girls with education, experience, and representation to pursue a career in manufacturing,” said Tony Sheffield, President, Canfor Southern Pine.
“Canfor is thrilled to support Bishop State Community College in hosting this unique program and we hope it inspires young women in our communities to learn more about the careers and opportunities in our thriving forest industry.”
Manufacture Alabama is actively seeking sponsors, mentors, and mentees to participate in the GLAM program.