Empowering the Next Generation of Women Leaders in Los Angeles' Infrastructure

Strategic Insights -

Mayor Karen Bass and the Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) have successfully completed the three-week Girls Build LA program, a workforce development initiative focused on introducing high school girls to in-demand aviation career pathways in construction, engineering, and skilled trades. The program aimed to break barriers, expand access, and inspire the next generation of women leaders in infrastructure. Through hands-on learning and direct engagement with industry professionals, 30 high school girls from across Los Angeles gained insight into in-demand industry sectors, including site visits to major infrastructure and aviation projects, workshops on sustainable design practices, and mentorship sessions with women leaders.

Key Takeaways:

  • Girls Build LA is a three-week summer program developed in partnership with LAWA to introduce high school girls to in-demand aviation career pathways in construction, engineering, and skilled trades.
  • The program aimed to break barriers, expand access, and inspire the next generation of women leaders in infrastructure, with 30 high school girls participating in 2023.
  • Participants engaged in site visits to major infrastructure and aviation projects, workshops on sustainable design practices, and mentorship sessions with women leaders across construction, engineering, and public service.
  • The program reflects Mayor Bass' commitment to early career exposure, equity, and building a pipeline of talent for high-growth industries, including a focus on infrastructure and engineering.
  • Since Mayor Bass took office, her Office of Economic Opportunity has created new job pipelines and job connections for hundreds of Angelenos, including the successful completion of Girls Build LA.

Statistics:

  • 30 high school girls from across Los Angeles participated in the 2023 Girls Build LA program.
  • The program offered participants immersive, hands-on exposure to high-demand industry sectors, including construction, engineering, and the skilled trades.
  • Site visits to major infrastructure and aviation projects, such as LAX and Van Nuys Airport, were a key component of the program.
  • Workshops on sustainable design practices and LEED certification were also offered to participants.
  • Mentorship sessions with women leaders across construction, engineering, and public service were a key aspect of the program, providing participants with career guidance and networking opportunities.

Sources:

  • Press release from the office of the Mayor of Los Angeles
  • Quote from Mayor Karen Bass in the press release
  • Quote from John Ackerman, CEO, Los Angeles World Airports, in the press release
  • Quote from Olinda Fabian, participant from Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnets High School, in the press release