She Built This City: Empowering Women in Charlotte, North Carolina
She Built This City (SBTC) is a groundbreaking initiative in Charlotte, North Carolina, designed to empower women and girls by equipping them with skills in construction, manufacturing, and the trades. This non-profit organization was founded with the intent to provide industry disruptive programming that sparks interest and builds pathways to lucrative careers in the skilled trades for youth, women and marginalized communities. Their goal is to close the gender gap in these traditionally male-dominated fields, SBTC is more than just a program—it’s a movement that is reshaping the landscape of opportunity for women in the Queen City.
Overview of "She Built This City"
At She Built This City, they believe in the power of hands-on education to transform lives. Their mission is to ignite and nurture the curiosity of young girls, introduce women of all ages to the trades, and create a pipeline for future leaders in construction and manufacturing. They aim to break down barriers and build up confidence, fostering a new generation of female innovators and entrepreneurs who can truly say, “She built this city.”
Why Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a city of growth, opportunity, and innovation. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., Charlotte is an ideal location for SBTC to thrive. The city’s vibrant economy and booming construction sector provide a perfect backdrop for women to enter and excel in trades that are in high demand. By focusing our efforts here, SBTC is not only contributing to the city’s development but also ensuring that women play a central role in its future.
The Program Highlights
She Built This City offers a range of programs tailored to different age groups and skill levels, ensuring that every participant can find a path that suits her aspirations.
- **Girls Clubs:** These clubs provide young girls (ages 9-18) with an introduction to construction and manufacturing. Through fun, engaging workshops, participants learn the basics of tools, safety, and project management, building a foundation of skills and confidence.
- **Women’s Workshops:** For women of all ages who are looking to learn new skills or transition into a career in the trades, our workshops offer hands-on training in areas such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and a desire to succeed.
- **Workforce Development:** SBTC partners with local businesses and educational institutions to offer workforce development programs that provide women with the training, certification, and job placement assistance needed to enter and advance in the construction and manufacturing industries.
- **Community Projects:** SBTC regularly engages in community projects, where participants can apply their skills in real-world settings. These projects not only benefit the community but also serve as a platform for women to showcase their abilities and gain valuable experience.
The Impact
Since its inception, She Built This City has made a significant impact on the lives of women and girls in Charlotte. Hundreds of participants have gained the skills, confidence, and connections needed to pursue careers in the trades. SBTC’s graduates are not just building homes and businesses—they are building a stronger, more inclusive Charlotte.
Get Involved
She Built This City is a community-driven organization, and we rely on the support of volunteers, sponsors, and partners to continue our work. Whether you’re a business looking to sponsor a program, a professional interested in mentoring, or someone who wants to volunteer your time, there are many ways to get involved and help us make a difference. Click HERE to Visit the SBTC Website or email [email protected]
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