Women in Manufacturing: A Journey of Empowerment and Innovation
In celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we honor the invaluable contributions of women in the manufacturing and precision machining industries. These
occasions remind us not only to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women but also to reflect on the journey toward gender equality and empowerment in traditionally male-dominated fields. At Reader Precision Solutions, we are proud to spotlight the trailblazing women who have shaped our industry and those who continue to innovate and lead within our precision machining operations.
A Historical Perspective
The involvement of women in manufacturing dates back centuries, but their roles saw a significant shift during the start of World War II, when women filled jobs left vacant by men who had gone to heed the call of duty, shipping overseas by the millions. These trailblazers laid the groundwork for future generations, proving that women could excel in manufacturing and engineering roles.
With high-demand for labor during these times, nearly six millions women joined roles that had previously been closed-off to them. Many of these roles were in factories, where the woman-led labor force was hard at work manufacturing ammunition, planes, trains, and other essential products vital to the wartime efforts.
Although women initially returned to traditional roles after the war, the groundwork was laid for their gradual return to the workforce. In time, women took on more permanent, technical positions, breaking down societal stigmas.
Women’s Roles in Precision Machining Today
Today, women are integral to the precision machining industry, holding roles that span from the shop floor to the executive suite. At Reader Precision Solutions and our subsidiaries Precision Plus and Iseli Precision, women make up nearly 40% of our team’s entire workforce. These women are:
- CNC Machinists
- Engineers
- Quality Assurance Managers and Technicians
- Finishing, Secondary, and Shipping Specialists
- Managers and Specialists in Production and Purchasing
- Business Development, Human Resources, and Finance Professionals
- Client Service Representatives
- Youth Apprentices
- …and more!
These women bring perspectives and skills that drive innovation and operational excellence, contributing significantly to our success and the industry’s evolution.
The Future of Women in Manufacturing and Precision Machining
The future of manufacturing and precision machining is bright. Women continue to redefine the stereotype of modern manufacturing, breaking barriers, and reshaping the industry as we know it.
RPS is proud to stand at the forefront of this transformative journey, championing the role of women in manufacturing and precision machining. Together, we can build a future where women’s contributions are recognized, celebrated, and integral to our collective
RPS is committed to fostering an environment where women can thrive through educational partnerships and community engagement initiatives. By supporting STEM education for young girls and offering mentorship programs, we aim to inspire the next generation of women leaders in manufacturing.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we invite you to join us in celebrating the achievements of women in manufacturing. Our commitment to supporting and uplifting the women in manufacturing and precision machining is unwavering. Their achievements not only contribute to the success of companies like Reader Precision Solutions but also pave the way for a more inclusive and innovative industry.
Learn more about the exciting career opportunities in precision machining and support educational and community initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation of women in the industry. Together, we can continue to redefine manufacturing and change the game of precision machining careers!
