Stories & Features
Breaking the Bias: CNC Machinist is Proud to be in the Girls Club
Mar 7, 2022
by
IDEX Health & Science
“I had to try,” said Lynn Baker as she reflects on her long-time career as a CNC machinist. It all started 38 years ago. Lynn was working at a manufacturing company and they needed machinists. “They put up a sign-up sheet and encouraged people to take classes. I thought to myself: Go for it and see what happens.”
Lynn spent one week working on a machine during the training. She was one of the best in the class. She got the job. 38 years later, she is now a Value Stream Lead at IDEX Health & Science in Bristol, CT where she has worked for the last 34 years.
“I am the lead for the plate line (the beginning of the manufacturing process). I help move material through the area and make sure everybody has work. I also work on my own CNCs.”
Lynn, CNC Machinist in Bristol, CT, helping to set up a new machine.
She admits she had no intention to become a CNC machinist, but she does remember how tough it was being a woman entering a male dominated industry. “Back then, it was a boys club in this industry. There were hardly any CNC machinists that were women, and you were not taken seriously. It was tough, but things have gotten much better,” said Lynn.
The IDEX Health & Science facility in Bristol continues to grow their female workforce with CNC machinists. They currently have five machinists that are women—recruiting some of them from local colleges—all of them eager to learn and grow.
“Even after 34 years, IDEX Health & Science helps me to keep growing with training, new products and projects. I learn new things every day. It’s never stagnant. The people here are good to work with. When there is a challenge, we find a way to make it work. Plus, it’s a very clean, organized environment and the benefits are very good.
My advice to women entering this field? Don’t limit yourself just because it’s a male dominated field. I’m proof that it can turn out to be a wonderful, fulfilling career,” said Lynn.
Lynn, CNC Machinist in Bristol, CT, helping to set up a new machine.
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