Making Manufacturing Approachable for Teen Girls: Unleashing Creativity through CAD and Machining
More women than ever are moving into STEM fields — in 2020, women represented 45% of students majoring in STEM subjects, up from 34% in 1994. But machining isn’t keeping pace with the shifting demographics. Just 7.4% of machinists are women, compared with 92.6% of men. With a female co-founder at the helm, Penta Machine Co is a relative rarity in the machining world — and we’d love to see that change.
In this post, we’re exploring how educators can help make it easier for girls to experience machining for themselves, opening the door for a bright future in the industry.
Shop class — many young people’s first entry into the manufacturing world — has often been male-dominated terrain. It’s understandable why some girls may not feel drawn to the environment — from the large, noisy, and sometimes intimidating machines, to the “boys club” vibe that can be hard to avoid with a literal roomful of boys. But by reimagining parts of the shop class experience, we can shrink and even eliminate some of the barriers girls experience and help close the gender gap for good.
Make Machining a Creative Outlet
Machining isn’t always seen as inspired or imaginative, but these qualities are essential to problem-solving and great design. By redefining machining as a creative outlet rather than just a technical pursuit, we can help capture the attention and interest of girls who might be naturally inclined toward creativity. Demonstrating how machining can be artistic offers more students the opportunity to try their hand at something fun and exciting.
Use CAD as a Canvas
Separate of machining, or 3D printing, the CAD program provides the chance to play and create in two and three dimensions. Using generative design technology, girls can create 3D models that combine their designs with AI — playing with flowing shapes and functional models. Introducing CAD software as a creative outlet with the potential to create intricate, visually appealing designs lets students use their imagination and artistic talents while they learn about the process of machining.
Encourage Self-Expression
When projects allow room for self-expression through personalized designs, it can significantly boost the appeal of shop class for girls and teens. Throughout the process, encourage students to design — and fabricate — items that align with their individual interests or incorporate their unique aesthetic styles and ideas. This helps develop a sense of ownership and pride in their creations — a serious confidence boost.
Support Mentorship and Representation
While anyone from any background can excel in the field of machining, representation matters — helping to redefine expectations of what a machinist “looks like.” In class, highlight the achievements of female role models and other women in tech to help girls envision themselves in similar roles. Invite guest speakers from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences and career paths to help challenge stereotypes and ignite a sense of ambition in young minds.
Women machinists will be key to a thriving future for the manufacturing industry.
Over the next decade, a massive wave of machinists will reach the age of retirement. Filling those openings with skilled female professionals will be an important part of successful industry evolution. Beyond the jobs that are currently available, future machinists can also define and create their own job titles. By inspiring young learners to explore what interests them — while gaining the skills to apply themselves in any role — we can equip and empower them to help tackle the pressing issues of the future while thriving in their chosen field.
The 5-axis Pocket NC is an excellent tool for helping young learners of all genders experience machining for themselves. Compact and user-friendly, it’s an ideal match for educational environments. Check out our blog post here to learn more about using the Pocket NC in the classroom.