Harford Community College’s first Women in Non-Traditional Careers Open House on May 3 highlighted non-traditional career paths for women and educated attendees on the extensive range of possible careers.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, women are underrepresented in occupations such as construction trades and STEM fields. Non-traditional careers offer women higher entry-level wages and higher pay as they advance in their career.

Brandy Naughton, Dean for Community Education at Harford Community College, spoke on the importance of educating women on career options they may have not considered.

Stephanie Hau, president and CEO of Chesapeake Environmental Management Inc., was the keynote speaker, presenting on “How to Make a Life, Not Just a Living: Choosing a Career Based on Your Talents.”

Also presenting at this interactive open house was Ronn Blaney, training director for Harford County Electrical Contractors Association and Apprenticeship Program, who spoke about apprenticeship opportunities; Pat Hogan, independent consultant and former director of the Small Business Development Center at Harford Community College, who spoke about starting up a small business; and Susie Comer, owner/president/treasurer of Comer Construction Inc., who spoke about construction opportunities for women.