Pie in the Sky The first time I walked into my industrial maintenance classroom, I realized immediately that I was the only woman. The hum of machines, the clanging of tools, and a room full of skeptical eyes made my heart race. Every mistake felt magnified. Every question I asked was silently judged. I had to learn faster, speak louder, and prove myself more than anyone else. It was intimidating, exhausting, and sometimes lonely. But in that pressure, I found clarity. I wasn’t just going to survive here; I was going to change it. My pie-in-the-sky dream is to see more women thriving in spaces where we are still rare, a future where no one has to wonder if they belong. Being the only woman has tested me in ways I never expected. In my cohort and on my maintenance team at Pratt Paper, I’ve had to navigate skepticism, doubt, and assumptions about what I can and cannot do. I’ve stayed late to learn skills on my own, asked questions that made me feel vulnerable, and carried the weight of representing every woman who might come after me. It hasn’t been easy, but it has made me stronger. It has made me determined. I imagine a workshop where women work side by side, teaching, fixing, and leading. I imagine younger girls seeing us and thinking, “I can do that too.” My dream is not only to succeed but to open doors, to create spaces where women feel welcome and capable, and to show that talent knows no gender. To reach this dream, I must master my craft. I must be confident, skilled, and fearless in my work so that my abilities speak louder than assumptions. I must be visible, showing up and staying in spaces where women have historically been overlooked. And I must be resilient, knowing that growth comes with challenge and courage comes from refusing to step back when it would be easier. This dream feels just out of reach, and that is why I hold it close. It challenges me, it drives me, and it fuels every step I take. When I graduate college with my degree, standing as the only woman in my program, and hear my name called over the speakers, illuminated in the audience, I want a little girl watching to believe that what she dreams is not just a dream, but reality. That is what this scholarship is investing in—not just me, but the future women I hope to inspire and the doors I hope to open.

My journey into a STEM field didn’t start in a classroom; it started behind a welding mask. In high school, I took a welding class out of curiosity, not knowing it would ignite a passion for hands-on technical work that would shape my entire future. There was something about the challenge, the focus, and the precision that made me feel powerful. It was the first time I saw myself not just learning a skill but building a career. Now, I’m pursuing industrial electrical maintenance at Pratt Paper, and I’m proud to say I’m the only woman in both my college cohort and in the maintenance department where I work. While that can be intimidating, it also motivates me. I’ve learned to carry myself with confidence and prove that I belong; not just for myself, but for every girl who’s told this field isn’t for her. One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had was attending Women in STEM events and speaking to young girls through programs like Junior Achievement’s Miss Business. These events gave me the opportunity to share my story with students who, like me, may have never seen someone who looked like them in a trade or technical role. I’ve also participated in career fairs, where I answer questions and help break down the stereotypes around women in industrial jobs. Every time a young girl approaches me with interest or excitement about what I do, it reminds me that I’m already making a difference. What drives me is the chance to be the role model I never had. Representation matters, especially in fields where women are still the minority. My goal isn’t just to succeed in my career; it’s to help shift the culture of STEM by showing that women can thrive in technical, hands-on roles just as much as anyone else. Whether it’s troubleshooting a complex electrical issue or welding a perfect seam, I want to show the next generation that women belong here too. Being in STEM isn’t easy; it’s physically and mentally demanding, and the lack of representation can be isolating. But that’s exactly why I stay. I want to help pave the way for other women who are just as capable but may need someone to light the path. With every skill I master and every barrier I break, I’m pushing boundaries not just for myself, but for the future of women in trades. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my education; it would help amplify the impact I’m already trying to make. I’m determined to keep learning, keep growing, and keep inspiring, one circuit, weld, or classroom visit at a time.

My journey into industrial electrical maintenance started with a welding torch. In high school, I signed up for a welding class out of pure curiosity. That class changed everything—it gave me confidence, purpose, and a deep appreciation for skilled trades. It was through welding that I realized I wanted to pursue a career in trades, a field that challenges me to think critically and solve real-world problems every day. Today, I’m studying Industrial Maintenace Technology in college and working at Pratt Paper, where I’m the only woman on the maintenance team. I’m also the only woman in my college cohort. While being the only female in these spaces can be isolating at times, it’s also a powerful motivator. I show up every day ready to prove that skill, determination, and hard work matter more than gender. I want to be more than just an exception; I want to be a leader and an example for others who may not see themselves represented in this industry yet. That’s why I’ve already begun working to make a difference. I actively participate in career fairs and outreach events, sharing my experiences with young women who may have never considered a future in the trades. I’ve taken part in Women in STEM programs and Junior Achievement’s Miss Business, where I help young girls explore career paths outside of traditional roles. At a career fair, a middle school girl came up to me after I spoke and said, "I didn't know girls could do this kind of work." That moment stuck with me; it reminded me exactly why I do this. These opportunities allow me to speak openly about my journey, the obstacles I’ve faced, and the pride I feel doing what I love. Representation matters, especially in fields like mine where women are vastly underrepresented. My goal isn’t just to succeed; I want to open doors for others. I plan to continue mentoring and advocating for women in trades, showing that success in this field is not only possible for women but something worth striving for. I also hope to work with schools and community programs to expand access to hands-on learning opportunities like the one that changed my life. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than just financial support. It would be an investment in someone who is actively working to challenge stereotypes and create space for others. I am committed to leading with purpose, breaking barriers, and building a career that makes a lasting impact, not just in my own life, but in the lives of others who follow.