Clovis High giving female students a chance to try a profession once considered exclusive to men

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Valley high school giving female students a chance to try a profession once considered exclusive to men

A Valley high school is giving female students a closer look at a profession that some people consider exclusive to men.

CLOVIS, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Valley high school is giving female students a closer look at a profession that some people consider exclusive to men.

This week Clovis High School is teaming up with National Association of Women in Construction. The idea behind the partnership is to introduce female students to opportunities and education in the construction industry. Jay Eichmann, Clovis High School teacher, said, "The biggest inhibitor to people trying things is just fear. And so, in a women's club like this, we give these young ladies a chance to try all these construction things in a fairly safe and friendly environment."

Eichmann said this is just the beginning of a new partnership that works with dozens of students.

Those working Tuesday after school have an interest in construction and know this club will open different doors for their future. "There's apprenticeships, there's different areas that you can go into. There's carpentry, masonry, and painting, there's all sorts of different things," said Lavenia Reed, Clovis High School sophomore.

"I thought that this is really fun. This is something that I would actually like to get into in the future," said Chloe Shwetzer, Clovis High School senior.

But it is not just about lessons in the classroom, these students are also working for the local community. Women are working side-by-side building several small picnic tables that will be donated to local charities.

The NAWIC has recognized the club's interests and is working with Clovis High to offer scholarships to the young women who want to pursue an education in construction. "We have brought it to the board. The board is considering this. Right now, what we do is, Fresno State and Fresno City College for the students that are in the construction industry," said Patricia Krueger, NAWIC.

Teachers and students hope this partnership will be the frame in building a bridge that will welcome women to a profession that was once only for men.