Women in Machining 2025: Inspiring Insights from Paema

Today, we celebrate the incredible women shaping the machining industry at FlexxCool and beyond. Their expertise, innovation, and dedication drive manufacturing forward from the office to the shop floor.

To mark International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting one of our own: Paema, a machinist who shared her journey and insights on working in the trade.

What inspired you to become a machinist?

“Growing up, my father did woodworking as a hobby. I admired his skills and always wanted to do something practical like him. Once, I visited a friend who was restoring old cars. On my way home, I decided I wanted to become a mechanical engineer. My future husband suggested I try machining, as I liked tangible projects with hands-on learning, and the apprenticeship system meant I could start learning and working right away.”

What has been your career’s most rewarding or proudest moment so far?

“Getting to work with 5-axis mill-turn machines and programming them. These machines are capable of machining complex parts from multiple angles in a single setup. Being trusted to learn and operate them has been very rewarding.”

How do you hope to see the industry evolve for women in the future?

“Many women might hesitate to enter trades like machining because they view it as dirty, unsafe, physically demanding, or fear they won’t fit in. In reality, modern CNC machining is clean, safe, and not overly strenuous.

From my own experience, I’ve felt included working in the trades alongside supportive coworkers who value my skills. It’s been interactions with women outside the trades, where I’m singled out as ‘a woman in trades’ that feel more awkward.

In the future, I hope more women see CNC machining as an inclusive, rewarding career choice with great colleagues and strong opportunities. Maybe we can find a way to showcase modern shop environments to people who wouldn’t otherwise consider it because of outdated conceptions.”*

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in manufacturing?

“The apprenticeship program is a great way to start saving early and avoid student loans. You’ll end up with a quality career and tangible skills. Try and find a video or a tour of a modern shop, as your mental image of manufacturing may be outdated. There are many programs, groups, and events for women in trades. For example, I was a mentor for a woman at NAIT through Women In Technology and Trades. There will be lots of people willing to help you get started and grow.”

At FlexxCool, we are proud to work alongside talented, driven women like Paema, whose expertise shapes the future of machining. As more women enter the trade, we’re excited to see how the industry continues evolving, becoming more diverse, inclusive, and innovative.

Stay tuned for updates