by Dr. Gladys I. Cruz
District Superintendent, Questar III BOCES
March marked Women in the Trades Month, a reminder of the evolving landscape of our workforce and the crucial role that Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, like those offered by Questar III BOCES, play in workforce development regionally.
While fields like automotive, construction, welding, and aviation remain largely male-dominated – with women comprising 6.2 percent or less of the workforce in many of these trades according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data – the success stories emerging from our BOCES offer a beacon of hope and a clear path forward for young women.
The experiences of Madisyn Werner, Elise Maland, Madisyn Bulson, and Klara Daoust illustrate the transformative power of CTE programs. Their journeys highlight how early exposure, hands-on training, and supportive environments can empower women to not only enter but also thrive in skilled trades.
Madisyn Werner, a Fire Science student from Greenville CSD, embodies dedication to public service. Already a volunteer firefighter, she is diligently working towards a career as an EMT. Her commitment shows the direct pathway CTE provides into essential roles.
Elise Maland, also from Greenville CSD, discovered her passion through a motorsports technology class at her home school. This initial spark led her to Questar III’s welding program and subsequently to our Youth Apprenticeship Program, where she was matched with Peckham Industries. Elise hopes to continue her employment with Peckham after graduation.
Madisyn Bulson, a Heavy Equipment student from Averill Park CSD who is one of only three women in her class, completed an apprenticeship with Gallivan Corporation. This proved to be a confidence booster, solidifying her sense of belonging in this field. After graduation, Madisyn plans to enter the workforce and has several job options to weigh this spring. Her long-term aspirations include earning a construction management degree and starting her own business – a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit fostered by CTE.
Klara Daoust, an Automotive Technology student from East Greenbush CSD, leveraged the Youth Apprenticeship Program to gain experience at Wally’s Ford. Looking ahead, Klara will further her education at SUNY Morrisville’s Ford Asset program, drawn by their specialized shops and certification opportunities. By stacking industry-recognized credentials, including her high school ASE certification, Klara is strategically positioning herself for success in the automotive field.
These individual narratives are further supported by the experiences of alumni like Breanna Kristiansen, who works at Greco Construction. Her willingness to return as a guest speaker for the “Women in the Trades” group provides students with invaluable insights and encouragement from someone who has navigated a similar path.
About 40 percent of the students in Questar III’s CTE, New Visions, and Career Studies programs are female. While we have strong female representation in cosmetology and nursing assistant, as well as balanced gender representation in areas like criminal justice and culinary arts, programs in auto, aviation, construction, heavy equipment, HVAC, and welding still have low female enrollment.
This disparity underscores the need to broaden the appeal and accessibility of these trades to young women. Skilled trades form the bedrock of our economy, yet the underrepresentation of women, coupled with an aging workforce nearing retirement, presents a significant challenge. It is important for young women to recognize the immense opportunities these careers offer – competitive pay and benefits, often without the burden of significant college debt, and the potential for employer-paid training through apprenticeships.
Questar III is actively addressing this challenge. Our commitment includes outreach to students and families. We are also launching a new CTE summer camp in Hudson and Troy for eighth, ninth, and tenth graders, aiming to ignite early interest in these fields. Please visit www.questar.org/CTESummer to learn more.
Furthermore, partnerships with local companies like GNH Lumber & Home, Herrington’s and Curtis Lumber through the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition are providing hands-on experiences for elementary students in Columbia, Greene, and Rensselaer counties, introducing them to the practical skills and career possibilities within the building trades.
Thank you to our partners for helping raise awareness in the trades and providing us with guidance and hands-on opportunities for students of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and interests. Thank you also to our partner districts for expanding educational opportunities for students in our region.