School and Community Winter 2023

Ray’s own impact on the industry has been both subliminal and tangible. Upon entering the profession, she quickly noticed that none of the personal protective equipment provided was made to fit a woman’s body. “Gear is often oversized - I've had jackets that went past my knees and button ups that were too tight around my chest and hips,” Ray added. “It was a hazard and did not protect me properly.” With these issues in mind, Ray has collaborated with industry clothing manufacturers to develop and test options that fit varying body types. With the John Tillman Company, Ray has helped assess and develop PPE that is specifically made for women. "As companies step-up and acknowledge the presence of women in industry and the necessity of proper fitting and working protective wear, they are helping fill a huge void that has been hindering women from utilizing their full scope of abilities," Ray explained. Young women in the HCC welding program now have access to gloves and other gear that fit properly as well, due to Ray’s efforts (though these gloves have not been released for public sale yet). This is just one step that she has taken thus far in her classroom career to accommodate and advance the next generation of industry leaders. Through networking, Ray is showing the young ladies in class that companies are listening. “These companies now know that we, as women, are here and they are actively working to better prepare women for their jobs,” she said. Ray has traveled to the Hart Career Center's contributing districts to recruit and inspire new participants. She is hopeful that more young women will pursue interest in the industry and develop

their careers accordingly. When she arrives at school each morning, Ray is fueled by the excitement of witnessing her students’ growth. Whether they launch a career or merely step out of their comfort zones to try a new hobby, she is proud to have contributed. This is a satisfying feeling, she noted. “Every time I put my hood on and I go into a booth out there, I'm helping someone get better to where they can potentially change their entire life.” Because she has enjoyed her role as an instructor at HCC so much, Ray is currently enrolled in school to achieve her full teaching degree. Ironically, one of the course requirements had already been fulfilled years ago when Ray studied as a psychology major. When the world comes full circle in this way, fate is hard to ignore. “Coming back to school and teaching, then going back to school myself is something I didn't think that I would ever be doing, but I'm ready to tackle it all and see where this path leads me,” Ray said. “That first welding spark has led me many places over the years and now I get to witness that in the students – it's really special. Opportunity is always knocking at the door. If you're willing to open it and go for a wild ride, you might just find your passion.”

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