Wallace State to host first Jill of All Trades event April 10

Hanceville, AL — Wallace State Community College will host its first Jill of All Trades event on April 10, introducing female high school students from across the region to in‑demand career opportunities in the skilled trades.

Jill of All Trades is a one‑day, hands‑on career exploration event designed to connect young women with skilled‑trade fields through guided activities led by industry professionals and Wallace State faculty. The program gives students an inside look at high‑demand career pathways and the post‑secondary options available within their communities.

“Wallace State is committed to expanding opportunities for every student, and Jill of All Trades allows young women to see themselves in career technical-related careers that are essential to our state’s economic future,” said Dr. Vicki Karolewics, President. “When students gain hands‑on experience and meet mentors who believe in their potential, it changes what they imagine is possible.

“By bringing Jill of All Trades to Wallace State, we aim to inspire the next generation of female leaders in the trades while strengthening local workforce pipelines and educational opportunities,” Karolewics added.

Participants will engage in one of five themed groups and rotate through three hands‑on sessions tailored to their interests. Career areas represented include:

• Survey It. Operate It. Connect It – land survey, heavy equipment, and fiber optics
• Skilled Trades & Construction - electrical technology, construction management and engineering, and HVAC
• Advanced Manufacturing - machine tool technology/CNC, welding, and robotics and automation
• Service & Creative Careers - culinary arts/nutrition, hotel management, and agriculture/horticulture
• Transportation & Mobility - diesel technology, automotive technology, and commercial driver’s license training

The event is open to female students in grades 9–12 who are interested in career and technical pathways.

Jill of All Trades is an international initiative hosted at colleges and training centers across North America. The program provides meaningful, hands‑on experiences that build confidence, spark curiosity and encourage young women to consider skilled‑trade careers they may not have previously explored.

Space is limited to 150 participants, and students must register individually.

For more information about Jill of All Trades at Wallace State, contact Adam West at 256.352.7424 or adam.west@wallacestate.edu.