Tag Archive: Women in STEM Careers

1. How American Crane Leads with Diversity and Innovation

   November 7, 2024 10:18 am Leave a Comment

   

   Women in Engineering

   The manufacturing industry has long been dominated by men, but the tides are turning. More companies are recognizing the need for diversity, and American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO) is at the forefront of this shift. As a certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), American Crane is proud to champion gender diversity in engineering and manufacturing, providing innovative solutions while paving the way for women in technical fields.

   Breaking Barriers and Promoting Inclusion

   Historically, women have contributed significantly to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), but they continue to be underrepresented in these fields. At American Crane, we believe that diversity is crucial for innovation. As Karen Norheim, President and CEO of American Crane, puts it, “Diversity breeds innovation.” Women bring unique perspectives and problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s competitive manufacturing landscape.

   American Crane is a role model for the industry. We actively encourage women to pursue careers in engineering and manufacturing through mentorship and community engagement. Karen Norheim’s involvement in national panels, including the Women in Manufacturing Summit, and her advocacy for industrial careers among high school students, demonstrates our commitment to breaking down stereotypes and providing opportunities for women.

   Leading with Certification

   Our certification as a WBE/WOSB not only highlights our leadership in gender diversity but also opens doors for our customers. Partnering with a certified women-owned business like American Crane enhances supplier diversity and can even contribute to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Companies working with American Crane gain access to a wider range of procurement channels while supporting an organization that values inclusion and innovation.

   A Commitment to the Future

   American Crane’s focus on diversity is more than a checkbox–it’s a core value. By nurturing a culture of inclusion, we ensure that the future of manufacturing is bright and innovative. We are proud to lead by example, and we invite other companies to join us in supporting the next generation of women engineers.

   To learn more about our commitment to diversity or explore our innovative material handling solutions, contact us today or request a quote. Together, we can build a more inclusive future in manufacturing.

2. Want to Get More Women in Manufacturing? Be a Role Model for Industry

   November 25, 2014 10:24 am Leave a Comment

   With the skills gap threatening manufacturers around the country, and not nearly enough millennials entering the industrial space, many have cited the need for more women in manufacturing. In the past, women dominated the shop floor while men were sent overseas to fight in World War II. At that time, women had characters like Rosie the Riveter to inspire them to join the ranks of blue collar workers that kept America moving forward.

   But today, women make up substantially fewer manufacturing employees. A recent article in Manufacturing.Net cites false stereotypes about both women and the manufacturing sector as a major cause of this issue. So what can we do to promote industrial careers among women?

   Here at American Crane, our commitment to our employees serves a dual purpose of educating the public about the value of industrial careers, and the opportunities available to women in this sector. Recently, we were proud to promote Karen Norheim, pictured right, formerly Vice President of Marketing and Information Technology, to Executive Vice President of the company. In this role, she plays a vital part in the success of American Crane, while also serving as an ambassador for women in technical careers.

   Having a strong background in marketing and information technology, Karen has been a constant force driving the company forward into the 21^st century. In addition to regular office duties, she’s also been actively advocating industrial careers to those who may not be familiar with the sector. This past fall, she had an especially busy roster. In September, Karen was a panelist for the 2014 Women in Manufacturing Summit in Chicago, IL. During her interview, Karen cited the reasons why manufacturers stand to benefit from hiring employees with different backgrounds. “Women offer a valuable point of view. Manufacturers need to have diversity in order to have a competitive edge,” she said.

   In October, Karen and her colleagues led a group of local high school students on a tour of American Crane’s manufacturing plant. The event was planned in honor of National Manufacturing Day, which is a day set aside each October for plants to open their doors to the public.

   Later that same month, Karen was invited to participate on another panel, this one being for Nuclear Science Week. On October 17^th, she started the day by discussing “The Energy Assembly Line: Advanced Manufacturing in Reducing Global Carbon Emissions,” at the Big Event in Seattle, Washington. The show brought together students, teachers, and members of the general public who are interested in nuclear science innovations.

   This is just a sampling of the community involvement Karen does on behalf of American Crane. With her in-depth knowledge of the industrial world, she is a perfect role model for women and girls who are considering a technical profession. We feel very fortunate to have our very own Rosie residing within our walls.