Wake Tech’s ‘Wake Invests in Women’ grows rapidly as companies grapple with labor shortage [Video]

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Wake Technical Community College continues to focus on closing gender, wage, and representation gaps through its program “Wake Invests in Women.” Organizers told ABC11 that since its launch three years ago, it has grown immensely. The focus on women is timely as companies grapple with the labor shortage.

“Tap into that talent that isn’t getting tapped into right now,” said Dr. Kasey Ashton, director of Wake Invests in Women.

According to Ashton, the program has partnered with several companies in the Triangle including RTI International and Wolfspeed. Those efforts are creating a path forward for students in the form of mentorship, research, and launching a new collective conversation series.

“Employers are able to participate in conversations that impact their particular organizations,” she said.

Mentorship is a big part of this program. Saundra Williams is a trustee for Wake Tech but also works with students as a mentor.

“When you talk …