IGNITE Field Trip at ANEW with Garfield High School and TAF @ Saghalie

On October 29, students from Garfield High School and TAF @ Saghalie visited ANEW’s training facility for a hands-on field trip designed to introduce them to careers in the construction trades. The ANEW team, led by Olivia Myers, Ashley Ahumada, and Mandy Richardson, welcomed students, coordinated logistics, and facilitated activities throughout the day. Students also received support from Em Barraza, who led the Pumpkin Build station.

The day began with safety protocols, PPE distribution, and an introduction to the facility and schedule. Students were divided into mixed-school groups before rotating through two interactive stations: ACES (Apprenticeship Competency Evaluations) and the Pumpkin Build. At ACES, students practiced hands-on trade skills used in real apprenticeship programs. The Pumpkin Build challenged students to collaborate creatively, bring ideas to life, and problem-solve in real time. These stations were led by an enthusiastic group of ANEW pre-apprenticeship student volunteers, including Sunny Barraza, Dianamarie Capps, Esther Davila, Alexandria Diaz, Marie Garcia, Oniee Gradin-Core, Yareli Hernandez, Rachel Mansfield, Remi Pitstick, Jordyn Seather-Brady, Riley Venema, and Chris Young.

After completing both stations, students regrouped for lunch and received fun ANEW swag as a takeaway from the experience. The afternoon concluded with a powerful Panel discussion facilitated by Mandy Richardson and featuring journeywomen Cynthia Grant, Brittani Cain, Marilyn Kennedy, Fiona Cleveland, Shalan Brown, Abigail Mullinax, and Marrissa Woodard-Nave. Panelists shared candid stories about their career paths, challenges they’ve faced in male-dominated fields, and what they wish they’d known when they were in high school. Their honesty made a strong impression on the students.

Students asked meaningful questions about navigating challenges as women in the trades, what the Panelists would do differently as teenagers, and what tips they would give to young people entering these fields. Panelists emphasized the importance of being on time, being present, asking questions, and being honest when you don’t know something. They also discussed advocating for oneself, understanding pay and apprenticeship pathways, and the value of exploring trade careers early.

Educators noted that the most impactful parts of the day were the hands-on activities and the opportunity for students to meet women—both peers and adults—who are thriving in the trades. Seeing women succeed in these fields helped students envision themselves in similar roles.