BAKERSFIELD, CA - New numbers show women continue to gain significant ground in leadership roles in the workforce. In the most recent findings, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 51% of management, professional, and related occupations are held by women.
A local group of women are working to highlight professional women in Bakersfield.
There are 400 chapters of the National Association of Professional Women, or NAPW, including one here in Bakersfield. Members say their goal is to connect with like-minded women to develop business and social relationships.
Although their careers are different, these women come together to form the Bakersfield chapter of the NAPW.
Chapter president Janelle Capra said, "We're trying to embrace the role of professional woman, whatever that is. We have employees that work for people, we have CEOs, we have entrepreneurs and retired. It's about getting together and being able to network and share our strengths and be able to inspire each other."
Capra said with 30 active members locally, the group is looking to expand and make a difference in the community.
"I birthed a baby and a business last year, so I wanted personally just to see what I could to do challenge myself to network with others and learn some new things and be able to give back to this community," said Capra.
Members say the group also provides support for women in the workforce.
Board member Kelly Brown said, "I think it's important that you know, that when they get together with this group that we talk about our little individual problems, that it's a big problem, or that we can give each other encouragement. It's a big deal."
Member Dana Yeoman said, "This is wonderful. This is a great networking opportunity to meet other women. This group is full of of really strong women and I like it, to be around other people who are innovators and the positive thinking."
Through the network of women, they're able to encourage each other and support the community.