Co-Line recently signed three new apprentices from Grinnell- Newburg High School, Dirk Sokol, Jamison Hidlebaugh, and Zoee Tauber. Zoee signed at a formal apprenticeship signing ceremony at the Build My Future event in Des Moines on April 15. The event is put on by the Iowa Skilled Trades and is a hands-on career event where students can meet employers and try job specific career skills. Nearly 7,000 students attended the event with 120 businesses showcased.

For Zoee, the event was about more than celebrating her decision, but also showcasing the opportunities for women in skilled trades. She began taking welding classes in her junior year of high school. She continued her welding education at Iowa Valley Community College through her senior year, where she recently completed her certification, before starting her apprenticeship at Co-Line on June 15.

“My teachers have been hyping me up and reminding me what a big deal it is,” Zoee said. “I hope it shows other girls that there are so many different career opportunities other than nursing or healthcare, and you can really go for anything.”