As James Brown says, “It’s a Man’s
Man’s Man’s World,”, or at least manufacturing facilities are. I am the buyer
for a highway safety equipment manufacturing company and I am physically
located at one of the manufacturing facilities. I’m surrounded by steel, steel
and more steel and men! Let me just say that I never would have pictured myself
in this environment. I am 100% girly girl, so it has been challenging. But it’s
a challenge I took on head first. I’ve had to learn to adapt and well,
actually, I’m still learning. If you’re a woman working at a manufacturing
facility, here are some things that might help you fit in.
1. Be yourself. I
think the men actually appreciate having a woman to joke around with. There is
no need to try to act like a guy. There are plenty of those around!
2. Be competent.
Nothing gains respect quicker than showing that you know how to do your job
well.
3. Be physically fit. This one is not a deal breaker, but I’ve found that it’s important to
be able to go out into the shop and walk the plant without getting out of
breath. The guys are out there all the time, so it shows that you can keep up
with them.
4. Be a women’s warrior. Support the other women that you work with. Don’t gossip about them.
After all, you’re all in the same boat.
5. Be strong. By
this I mean emotionally and mentally. Men can sometimes make comments that are
not intended to hurt, but do. So don’t take things personally.
