Women Who Have Shaped and Continue to Shape Manufacturing
March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women across industries—including manufacturing. Women have been integral to the evolution of this field, from the Industrial Revolution to the modern era of Industry 4.0.
At FlexTrades, we believe in honoring the trailblazers who paved the way while also recognizing the women shaping the future of manufacturing today. Here are three historical figures who left a lasting impact on the industry—plus one woman actively working to empower and unite women in manufacturing today.
Rosie the Riveter: The Icon of Women in Manufacturing
Few symbols are as powerful as Rosie the Riveter. During World War II, the U.S. government launched a campaign to encourage women to take on factory jobs while men were at war. Rosie became the face of that movement.
But over time, Rosie came to represent far more than wartime labor. She became a symbol of empowerment, resilience, and the role of women in manufacturing, proving that women could not only step into traditionally male-dominated roles but also excel in them.
Stephanie Kwolek: The Accidental Innovator Who Revolutionized Safety
Unlike Rosie, Stephanie Kwolek wasn’t a household name—but her impact on manufacturing and safety is undeniable.
Originally aspiring to be a doctor, she took a temporary job at DuPont to save money for medical school. That temporary job turned into a 40-year career, during which she discovered Kevlar—one of the most durable and widely used industrial fibers in the world.
Kevlar is used in boats, airplanes, parachute lines, and ropes, but its most famous application is bulletproof vests, which have saved countless lives.
Fun Fact: Stephanie discovered Kevlar while researching a lighter, stronger alternative to steel for use in tires. What she created was five times stronger than steel, heat-resistant, and more flexible than fiberglass.
Ella May Wiggins: The Voice of Women in the Workforce
During the Industrial Revolution, women made up 75% of the textile mill workforce. Among them was Ella May Wiggins, a single mother of five working as a spinner in a textile mill.
But Ella May was more than just a worker—she was a fierce advocate for labor rights. She fought for fair wages, better working conditions, and support for working mothers. She participated in one of the most famous textile mill strikes and even wrote protest ballads condemning the industry’s mistreatment of workers.
Her song “Mill Mother’s Lament” remains a powerful testament to the struggles of early female workers in manufacturing.
Allison Grealis: Leading the Future of Women in Manufacturing
While Rosie, Stephanie, and Ella May paved the way, Allison Grealis is actively shaping the future.
As the Founder and President of Women in Manufacturing (WiM), she leads a nationwide trade association dedicated to supporting, promoting, and advancing women in the industry.
What started as a small networking group within the Precision Metalforming Association has grown into a powerful independent organization, providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities for women in manufacturing.
Women Will Shape the Future of Manufacturing
These four women represent just a fraction of the contributions women have made to manufacturing. Today, as the industry evolves with #Industry40 and works to bridge #TheSkillsGap, the role of women is more critical than ever.
At FlexTrades, we celebrate the past, present, and future of women in manufacturing. As opportunities continue to expand, the next generation of leaders, innovators, and trailblazers is just getting started.
Want to learn more about careers in manufacturing? Explore opportunities with FlexTrades today.
