Wytheville Community College students Lynn Hatten, Isabelle Holmes, Harlee McBride, and Carmen Walton recently shared their success stories as part of National Women in Construction Week. All four women are currently enrolled in construction programs that were once dominated by men.
Hatten, a 36-year-old mother of two, is enrolled in WCC’s Electrical Program and will be completing a second Career Studies Certificate this semester. She plans to continue working toward an Associate Degree. Her ultimate career goal is to be a master electrician.
When asked how she became interested in this career path, Hatten noted that her family has been remodeling an old house.
“I have learned to do a lot of electrical work during this remodeling project, and I enjoy the work. I am currently employed by Hutchins Electric Service, and I love my job. When I complete my degree, I know that I will have excellent job opportunities in a field that I love.”
Hatten noted that she encourages all women to consider careers in construction.
“The world is missing out on so many extraordinary minds and skills by making women feel like it’s not their place to work in construction trades. I want to be a part of that change,” said Hatten.
She noted that she has heard about “Jill of All Trades” programs that are designed to showcase opportunities for women in construction, and she hopes to one day be able to participate in one of these programs.
“I encourage my daughters and friends to consider careers in construction,” said Hatten. “There is a huge demand, and the pay can be excellent.”
McBride, a resident of Galax, is enrolled WCC Carpentry Program. She noted that she grew up helping her stepfather remodel their house.
“I enjoy building things and doing masonry work,’” said McBride.
Her career goal is to become an independent carpenter and someday own her own business. As she pursues her education, she is currently working full-time as a manager at Taco Bell.
When asked what advice she might give to other women who are interested in construction programs, McBride said, “Just do it! Gender doesn’t set the standard.”
Isabelle Holmes has a longer commute to take classes in the Plumbing Program. A resident of Lebanon, Holmes said that when she started looking for training opportunities in plumbing in Southwest Virginia, WCC’s program was the nearest one that she could find. Her goal is to complete the program and become a master plumber and electrician.
“I currently work at Mt. Empire Restoration, a company located in Abingdon. The owner, Rick Sturgill—who sadly passed away recently— was a great mentor who really encouraged me,” said Holmes.
Despite the almost two-hour commute two nights a week, Holmes says that the program is worth it.
“At first, I was really scared about being in the program, but once I proved myself, all of the other students—most of whom are men—treat me like any other student. WCC offers a good program, and I am excited to be here.”
Walton, a resident of Wytheville, graduated in Spring Semester 2023 with Career Studies Certificates in WCC’s Electrical Program. She has now returned to WCC to expand her skills and is enrolled in the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Program.
When asked why she chose to enroll in construction programs, Walton said, “It all started with an interest in alternative energy. I applied to the college in the hope of learning how to install my own solar PV system. The adviser of building trades, Danny Choate, recommended electrical studies. I almost didn’t follow through on the enrollment for financial reasons. Thankfully, I qualified for G3 funds that covered my tuition, and I was able to enter the program.”
Women in Construction Week is March 3-9 and is sponsored by the National Association of Women in Construction. It is an opportunity to highlight the work and successes of women in the construction industry.
Danny Choate, Lead Faculty for WCC’s Construction Technology Programs, says that he is pleased to have so many women enrolled.
“All of these students are all doing well,” said Choate. “I hope their success will encourage other women to consider careers in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC. There are many, many job opportunities, and women can be as successful as men in these careers.”
For more information about the construction programs available at WCC, contact Choate at 276-744-4973 or [email protected]. Several types of financial assistance may be available to help cover tuition and other educational expenses.
