March is Women in the Trades Month, and Questar III BOCES is spotlighting the young women in our Career and Technical Education programs who are developing the technical skills to succeed in male-dominated fields. While women may continue to be underrepresented in fields such as automotive, construction, welding, or aviation, these students prove that talent and passion are what truly define success.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2024, women make up 6.2% or less of the workforce in roles such as firefighters, construction equipment operators, construction and maintenance workers, auto service technicians/mechanics, welders, and more. Every day, female CTE students help to break the mold as they develop skills to be successful in their careers. Throughout March, we’ll be sharing a few of their stories and celebrating all women along the way.
Madisyn Wener is a Questar III BOCES Fire Science student at Donald R. Kline Technical School from Greenville Central School District. She is also a member of the Greenville Fire Department, where she began volunteering before joining our program.
“I was inspired to join the fire department after a house fire in 2022,” said Madisyn. “And I’ve always enjoyed helping people.”
Madisyn is working toward a career in public service. In addition to this one-year program to serve her community, she plans to enroll in our EMT program next year and become an EMT in the city. But before she gets there, she is learning the basic skills in emergency services as she works towards her Basic Emergency Firefighting Operations (BEFO) certification.
Madisyn Werner (standing left) poses with her classmates in front of the Questar III fire truck.
“Being in this program here, I can train with people my age,” said Madisyn. “It takes longer than the regular BEFO course, but I get to do it during my school day versus in my free time. I’m also receiving advanced training not included in the BEFO course.”
Part of that training comes from her instructor, Mr. Fox. Madisyn appreciates how he connects with students, offering real-life stories and scenarios.
“He knows more than a textbook,” Madisyn said. “Because of him, I’m a little less scared and more prepared as I become more involved with firefighting. I think I’m definitely more prepared than other juniors who have joined my department, even when they’ve been on more calls than me. I can go and be more confident in what I’m doing.”
Even still, it can be a tough field for a young woman. In a small classroom of just five students, Madisyn is the lone female in the program.
“Sometimes, it’s tough,” shared Madisyn. As a female, I just don’t have the same type of connection as my male classmates have with each other. They’re also physically stronger, but they’re good and will still work with me.”
Madisyn doesn’t let being the only female in her class deter her and encourages others to join CTE programs, too.
“Join for the experience,” Madisyn said. “Even if you don’t make a career out of it, you’ll always have the life lessons you gained here. Everything you’re doing here is a life lesson, and a good lesson to have.”
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