On March 30, we hosted a conversation with female leaders in our industry. To hear their advice and learn about the opportunities for women in Hillsborough County manufacturing, watch the full event recording below.

Key Takeaways:

Communication and collaborative skills are essential in manufacturing.

“No matter what kind of job you’re in, it’s important that you communicate clearly—in writing and in your words—and that you’re used to working effectively with other people to get something done.”

– Deborah Hayden, CPA, CFE, CITP, SHRM-SCP, Controller, Precision Build Solutions and Tampa Tank

Manufacturing jobs are in high-demand, and there’s space for women to fill those roles.

“You need to be your own advocate. There are all types of manufacturing positions out there. Employers are all ready to hire; they’re looking to hire diversity, and diversity includes women. With so many different opportunities and avenues, take the time to research different roles.”

– Angela Lyons, MBA-HR, SHRM-CP, Sector Strategist of Manufacturing and Logistics, CareerSource Tampa Bay

If you’re unsure of where to start learning about manufacturing, try visiting an education or career site.

“We have pathways for students as well as people who are already out of school and want to look at a second career. If you’re interested in manufacturing, you can come to Hillsborough Community College and we’ll give you a tour of our education program. You can also call up local manufacturing companies here in town and ask if you can do a tour. It’s important to physically see what’s happening in modern age manufacturing.”

– Dr. Deborah Kish Johansen, Brandon Campus President, Hillsborough Community College

Take advantage of all the available opportunities in Hillsborough, because these experiences will prepare you for your career.

“We have manufacturing programs as early as middle middle school: robotics, technology education, aerospace, engineering and more. We prepare students for life. Our goal is to get students careers. When our students leave Hillsborough County schools, we want them to have a pathway, whether it’s into the workforce or HCC or off to a four-year school.”

– Lauren Ebert, Supervisor of Career, Technical and Adult Education, Hillsborough County Public Schools

To learn more about Hillsborough County Public Schools Career and Technical Education Programs, visit the HCPS website.

Categorized in: Event, Careers, Education