Earlier this month, team members from the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY) attended an event at Watkins Glen International racetrack to witness the unveiling of the Real Life Rosies logo on a NASCAR vehicle. The logo was displayed on the hood of the BuildSubmarines.com car during the “Go Bowling at the Glen” NASCAR Cup Series race. MACNY staff participated in several activities, including meeting the driver and observing from pit side.
The partnership with BuildSubmarines.com and BlueForge Alliance brought attention to MACNY’s Real Life Rosies pre-apprenticeship program. This initiative, inspired by Rosie the Riveter, aims to support women entering manufacturing roles. According to MACNY, “Inspired by the iconic Rosie the Riveter — the cultural icon who symbolized the strength and capability of women stepping into industrial roles during World War II — the Real Life Rosies pre-apprenticeship program carries that legacy forward by opening doors for women in modern manufacturing. As New York State’s first direct-entry training program created specifically for women, Real Life Rosies offers a no-cost, hands-on learning experience designed to build real-world skills and confidence.”
In addition to highlighting Real Life Rosies, another feature on the car was Terri Jackson, recognized as “the first ever female ‘Giant of Skilled Trades.'” The release notes her service in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee and her subsequent career path through a Registered Apprenticeship in Manufacturing Engineering Technology at Forkhardt Hardinge. She has achieved Journeyworker certification and currently works as a Utility Machinist at Forkhardt Hardinge.
MACNY acknowledged its partners’ role in promoting these initiatives: “We’re deeply grateful to BuildSubmarines.com and BlueForge Alliance for not only celebrating Terri on the door of the car but for proudly showcasing the Real Life Rosies logo on the hood. Their partnership helps strengthen the workforce by shining a spotlight on women entering the skilled trades.”
This fall will see new groups join Real Life Rosies across New York State as well as an expansion of Advance 2 Apprenticeship, MACNY’s other pre-apprenticeship program focused on advanced manufacturing careers.
For more information about participating or supporting these programs, visit https://joinrosies.com or https://nysapprenticeship.org/pre-apprenticeship/.
