Story Published: Mar 10, 2010 at 6:32 PM MDT
Story Updated: Mar 10, 2010 at 7:50 PM MDT
The trick is to consider non-traditional occupations.
They usually pay a lot more compared to the stereotypical women's jobs. Brittiny Huber, American Falls High School Senior said, 'It was pretty exciting."
Tuesday morning 250 women learned about dozens of programs offered at ISU that are considered non-traditional for women.
That's things like information technology, law enforcement, and science. Rylie Wright, American Falls High School Junior said, "The robots-that was pretty cool. You get to learn about the lasers and stuff."
While these types of jobs are usually dominated by men, women who get involved typically have a high job satisfaction. Donna Summers, Center for New Directions Counselor said, "Because they've gone into something because it fits for them, not because it's, 'a girl job, or a woman job.'"
They may also see more promotional opportunities. Jessica Morgan, an Information Technology Systems student said, "Me being a first semester student, I'm the only girl and there are a lot of benefits for being one of the few women that are in the program."
For those women looking to go to college a non-traditional career can actually be a good way to take advantage of more scholarships and grants.
Participants also spent time in workshops going more in depth on some careers, and learning how to be successful and to plan ahead. Wright said, "I think women really need to get involved in them, because there are so many opportunities and it just helps the community." And organizers agree.
As more women get involved they can bring new ideas to the table and create a more diverse workplace. Summers said, "No matter what it is, whether its non-traditional or traditional, we want them to find career opportunities and know what's available so they have lots of opportunities and options."
The Center for New Directions, a group that helped organize the conference, also let people know they are available to do career counseling.