Northern event encourages women to enroll in traditionally male fields

Press Release

As an ongoing effort to close the gender gap, through a grant awarded by the Women’s Foundation of Montana, Montana State University-Northern is holding an informative event Thursday, Feb. 9 from 8.30 a.m to 2.30 p.m.

The event, which will highlight traditionally male-dominated professions, is open to women of all ages and all walks of life. The programs that have the lowest female representation are primarily the trades, but also others that necessarily aren’t, such as civil engineering technology and criminal justice.

“In the case of criminal justice,” Northern’s Office of Diversity Awareness and Multicultural Programs Director Cristina Estrada-Underwood said, “the gap is not so visible in the student enrollment at Northern since it is almost at 50-50. However, in the work force there is still a great disproportion in which females are outnumbered. The criminal justice program is relatively new at MSUN, so it is very possible that in the near future, the dynamic at least in the region, might change.”

During the morning of the Feb. 9 event, participants will attend short presentations along with hands-on activities in several fields. They will have a working lunch in which they will gain information about financial aid, scholarships and how to register at Northern.

That afternoon, participants will have the opportunity to interact in a panel discussion with professionals who are successful in the areas previously mentioned, but they will also have the opportunity to talk with female students who are currently working on these degrees at Northern.

Additionally, a handful of regional employers will participate in the conversation.

“The response from the high schools and the community in the area has been very positive. We expect a great turn out,” Estrada-Underwood said.

She added that the event only has a few slots left. Registration will be closed by Monday at 5 p.m. or earlier if all the spaces available are taken.

Women who are interested in attending the Feb. 9 event can register electronically at http://www.msun.edu/multiculturalcenter/.

People can request more information by emailing [email protected] or calling 265-3589.