Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

Tuesday, May 1, 2001 Governor Scott McCallum Secretary Jennifer Reinert

News Media Contact Rachel Biittner 608/266-8710 e-mail: news@dwd.state.wi.us fax: 608/266-1784

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DWD SECRETARY RECOGNIZES WORK OF TASK FORCE
Task force goal is to attract women to male dominated jobs

MANITOWOC – Department of Workforce Development Secretary Jennifer Reinert today recognized the work of the Task Force on Nontraditional Employment for Women at the Manitowoc Job Center, during Move State Government events. The NTO Task Force was created in 1997 to support and encourage women to participate in training and participate in jobs that traditionally have been filled by men.

"This task force has made significant strides in helping women enter jobs that have been primarily male dominated in the past. Women are becoming construction workers, electricians, firefighters and welders, in part because of the efforts of this task force," said Secretary Reinert.

Staff in the Manitowoc and Sheboygan Job Centers created the Task Force to coordinate activities that expose women to training and employment opportunities and to educate employers on the benefits of hiring women in the skilled trades. Task force membership includes staff from the Job Centers, Lakeshore Technical College, Lake Michigan Private Industry Council, Job Service, Forward Service Corporation, Manitowoc and Sheboygan County Human Services, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and Curtis and Associates.

As a result of the task force activities, there has been an increase in the enrollment of women at Lakeshore Technical College in the following programs: Machine Tool Operation, Mechanical Design, Industrial Maintenance, and Electronics Four-in-One program.

"This effort is not only beneficial to the women who are able to secure meaningful employment, but for business owners who are looking for quality skilled workers. It truly is a win-win for everyone involved," said Secretary Reinert.

A photo display at the Sheboygan and Manitowoc Job Centers highlights area women who are working in nontraditional occupations. The pictures include welders, electricians and firefighters.

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