Why does Rosies Girls center around activities in the skilled trades?
Carpentry and other skilled trades offer an unusual and powerful vehicle for trying new things, boosting self-esteem, and encouraging collaboration. While often considered activities appropriate to older – usually male – students, this work is well suited to a young adolescent’s temperament and to the particular needs of adolescent girls. Building, in particular, is inherently collaborative, requiring the hands, strength, and minds of many. Girls in early adolescence have few, if any, opportunities to explore the skilled trades and related careers. These career areas offer significant earning potential and opportunities for professional advancement and satisfaction. Notably, parents and teachers are not always aware of these options for girls. Fewer than 5% of all students enrolled in high school construction or technical programs are girls.
