During a recent subcommittee hearing, Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a Democrat from Illinois, raised eyebrows with her assertion that the term "manufacturing" may contribute to the underrepresentation of women in the field. Speaking at a hearing titled "AI in Manufacturing: Securing American Leadership in Manufacturing and the Next Generation of Technologies," Schakowsky suggested that the word itself, which contains "man," might deter women from pursuing careers in this sector.
The comments came as Schakowsky discussed her experiences with a manufacturing company that is actively working to engage younger individuals in the industry. She noted that during her discussions with the company, they reported a low percentage of female students interested in manufacturing careers, with only about 13% of those signing up being women. "It was a low number," she remarked, questioning whether the very name of the field could be a barrier to female participation.
Schakowsky’s remarks sparked a mix of reactions, particularly from her Republican colleagues. Rep. Gabe Evans, a Republican from Colorado, responded on social media, suggesting that while Democrats focus on the perceived sexism of the term "manufacturing," the priority should be on revitalizing American jobs in the sector.
This debate occurs in the context of broader discussions about gender representation in manufacturing. According to a 2022 report from the U.S. Department of Commerce, women constitute 47% of the American workforce, yet only 30% are employed in manufacturing roles. This discrepancy highlights ongoing challenges in attracting women to a field traditionally dominated by men.
Schakowsky’s comments are part of a larger conversation about how language and societal perceptions can influence career choices. As the manufacturing industry continues to evolve, addressing these barriers may be essential for increasing female participation and ensuring a diverse workforce that reflects the population.