by Kelly Henwood
On March 10th, 2018 San Diego Continuing Education students and staff attended the Third Annual Women in the Trades Conference organized by the San Diego Chapter of the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC), which is a volunteer organization that promotes diversity, social & economic justice and equal opportunities for minorities and traditionally under-represented populations in the trades. The conference was sponsored by the IBEW Local 369, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), Local 230 Plumbers, Steamfitters, and HVACB among others. The day kicked off with a welcome by State Assembly Member Shirley Weber. Assembly member Weber addressed the over 100 women in attendance including high school students, union professionals, as well as educators and parents. The conference offered compelling workshops focused on women’s empowerment success strategies, union participation, team building, and an introduction to the Trades for pre-apprentices and high school students. The day closed out with an inspiring presentation by Delores Huerta, civil rights activist and co-founder of the National Farmworkers Association which later became United Farm Workers. SDCE would like to extend many thanks to the EWMC and Steven Steppe who generously sponsored 10 SDCE students and employees to attend, including San Diego Gateway to College and Career program participants.