House Democrat Asks if Women Are Discouraged from Going Into Manufacturing Because the Name Sounds Like a Guy'

Rep. Jan Schakowsky raised concerns about the low number of women entering manufacturing during a hearing. She highlighted a recent meeting with a manufacturing company, which noted only about 13% of students interested in the field were women. MIT professor Elisabeth B. Reynolds acknowledged the industry’s historic image as dirty and dull but stressed that manufacturing has evolved significantly. Her insights suggested that improving perceptions and working conditions might increase women's participation in the workforce, given that they thrive in a sector with higher wages than the national average.

The witness argued that the lack of women in manufacturing relates to its past reputation as dirty and dull, which has changed in the modern era.

Elisabeth B. Reynolds emphasized that manufacturing isn't what it used to be and should be viewed as a dynamic sector, essential for attracting young talent.

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