3rd Annual Celebration of Women in Trades: Wednesday, April 30th, 2025
Emily Griffith Foundation is excited to present our highly anticipated 3rd Annual “A Celebration of Women in Trades”— taking place on National Apprenticeship Day! This special luncheon brings together nearly 300 industry leaders, educational partners, donors, and supporters to honor the incredible women making an impact in the trades.
Event Features:
Opportunities to connect with Emily Griffith Technical College students and hear their inspiring stories.
Interactive trades showcases highlighting Emily Griffith Technical College’s innovative programs.
Vendor tasting stations featuring cuisine from a variety of diverse local restaurants.
A dynamic panel discussion with women students breaking new ground in traditionally male-dominated fields.
While this year’s event is sold out, we’re excited to share the stories and successes of the remarkable women shaping the future of the trades. Stay tuned for event highlights and ways you can continue supporting Emily Griffith Foundation and its mission of providing funds and resources for the students and programs at Emily Griffith Technical College.
This event is SOLD OUT; if you would like to get on a waiting list, email Robin Chalecki: rchalecki@egfoundation.org
Thank You to Our Event Sponsors:
Meet Our 2025 Women in Trades Panelists!
Lily Fleener
Automotive Service | Anticipated Completion: July 2025
Lily Fleener discovered her passion for automotive service when she started maintaining her own car. The challenge and problem-solving aspects of the field fascinated her, and she chose Emily Griffith Technical College over other programs for its fast-paced, hands-on learning. “This school keeps me interested and challenged in a way I never experienced before,” she says. Although she initially worried about being underestimated as a young woman in the field, she quickly found her place. “The guys in my class have never made me feel less than, and my instructor treats me just like everyone else.” Lily plans to gain more experience through an internship or apprenticeship and dreams of eventually running her own shop. She is also pursuing rally racing, a passion she shares with her dad. “I had a lot of anxieties going into this, but I pushed past them—and it’s been one of the best years of my life.”
Daesha Ottem
Electrical Apprenticeship – Greiner Electric | Journeyman License: Dec 2024
Daesha Ottem sought a career that would provide financial independence without the burden of college debt. Encouraged by her family, she researched the trades and was drawn to the challenge and long-term stability of electrical work. “I wanted something that was both physically and mentally demanding,” she says. Through her apprenticeship, she gained not just skills but also resilience. “Women have to work twice as hard to prove ourselves. Sometimes you have to speak up to get the same training as the men, but overcoming those challenges has given me a backbone.” Despite obstacles, Daesha thrived—graduating as the top student in her class and earning her Journeyman Electrical License. She is now a Project Engineer, working toward becoming a Project Manager. “The trades are a career, not just a job. You gain a skill that stays with you no matter where you go.” Her advice to women in the trades? “Don’t let the men carry your ladder. Hold your own, stick up for yourself, and walk with your head held high.”
Ashlinn Mast
Sheet Metal Apprenticeship – RK Mechanical | Anticipated Completion: May 2027
Ashlinn Mast found her path to the trades through the Master's Apprentice Program, a faith-based pre-apprenticeship training initiative. A visit to RK Industries inspired her to join the company’s sheet metal apprenticeship, and she hasn’t looked back since. “Getting paid to learn has been amazing,” she says. “I’ve been able to accomplish so many financial goals while building a career I love.” Her journey hasn’t been without challenges, but she has found her footing and built a strong network. “I’ve met people who just want to see me succeed. My foremen and journeymen call me their ‘work daughter,’ and I know I can count on my team.” Ashlinn takes pride in being trusted with important tasks and even teaching new apprentices. With her sights set on becoming a female black hat (superintendent), she’s determined to keep growing.
Sierra Scheid
Welding | Anticipated Graduation: July 2025
Sierra Scheid chose welding because she wanted to develop a hands-on skill that would open doors for her future. Encouraged by her grandmother, she researched Emily Griffith Technical College and was drawn to its strong reputation, financial aid options, and industry connections. “Emily Griffith truly cares about students' success,” she says. “Whatever goals you set, the team here will help you get there.” As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Sierra embraces the challenges. “We are not allowed mediocrity. If people are looking over your shoulder waiting to discredit you, you make sure that whatever you’re doing is the best.” With plans to explore different welding jobs and expand her skill set, Sierra is confident in her future—thanks in part to the support of her instructors. “My success is a direct reflection of the care Matt and Trina put into their students. Without people like them passing down their knowledge, the trades wouldn’t survive.”
