Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College will host a Women in Skilled Trades Showcase on Aug. 6 to introduce women to training and career opportunities in high-demand industries as employers across Mississippi continue to seek skilled workers.
Demand for skilled workers continues to grow as manufacturing, construction and related industries expand across Mississippi and the Gulf Coast. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the broader trade, transportation and utilities sector increased from 246,400 jobs in December 2025 to 250,400 jobs in May 2026.
While workforce demand continues to increase, women remain underrepresented in many skilled trades. According to the Mississippi Apprenticeship Program, 9,269 women have participated in registered apprenticeship programs across Mississippi since 2016, as of March 30.
Joshua Pierce, an instructor at MGCCC’s George County Center, said the showcase was created to encourage more women to consider careers in welding, commercial driver’s license training and electrical technology.
“We have been looking for ways to increase the number of women in welding, CDL and electrical technology programs,” Pierce said. “Having face-to-face conversations gives us the opportunity to explain what career options are available and how we can help them get started.”
The free event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the George County Center and is open to high school students, adult learners and others interested in learning about careers in the skilled trades.
Attendees will be able to participate in live demonstrations, try hands-on simulators, tour instructional labs and meet instructors and industry professionals.
Pierce said misconceptions and gender bias continue to discourage some women from entering the skilled trades despite growing workforce demand.
“In Mississippi, we’re seeing an economic boom in skilled trades,” Pierce said. “In welding especially, there has been a negative perception among some employers about having men and women work together. We want women to know these careers are available to them and that they can be successful in these fields.”
Representatives from Bollinger Shipyards, Swift Transportation, Nelson Electrical and Ingalls Shipbuilding will attend the showcase to discuss career opportunities with participants.
Two Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College graduates who now work as structural and pipe welders at Ingalls Shipbuilding will also share their experiences in the program and answer questions about working in the industry.
“Come participate,” Pierce said. “Take the step to see what opportunities are available and how we can help you achieve your goals.”
Pierce said 41 people had registered for the event as of the interview. Additional information and registration are available through Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.
Contributor: Jayla Jones
