Demi Knight Clark joined us on The Fabricator Podcast to talk about her efforts to open career pathways in the welding and manufacturing industries to people of all backgrounds and genders.

She talks about how her grandmother's work as a Rosie the Riveter during World War II fueled Clark's own interest in the trades, pivoting from a career in construction, focusing on workforce development initiatives that engage underrepresented populations, and partnering with welder Nate Bowman on initiatives with Lincoln Electric, Goodwill Industries, Marketing Metal, and more.

Clark emphasizes the need for more inclusive recruiting, welcoming environments, and mentorship to attract and retain a diverse workforce in the skilled trades. Her mission is to "put welding in places where welding is not" and inspire the next generation to see the opportunities in modern manufacturing.

This episode was recorded at FABTECH 2024 in Orlando, Fla.

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