Mechanical Industry is Not Too Challenging for Female Workers

​(News Portal – Dong Nai) - The mechanical engineering field is often perceived as a domain solely for men. However, in many factories, the presence of dedicated, passionate female workers proves otherwise. Through adaptability, dynamism, and training support from companies, these women have succeeded in their roles and enjoy stable incomes. ​

Female workers in the mechanical engineering sector passionately working in factories

Passion for the Profession

Ms. Nguyen Thi Quyen began her mechanical career at Broad Bright Industrial Co., Ltd. (Ho Nai Industrial Park) over 8 years ago and quickly adapted to the work environment. Currently, she is a mechanical processing worker specializing in operating CNC lathes, drilling machines, and milling machines. To meet job requirements, apart from receiving training and guidance from her company, she actively sought knowledge and honed her skills to improve her expertise, applying it effectively in practice.

Throughout her work, Ms. Quyen strictly adheres to technological processes, technical guidelines, and occupational safety regulations. From her experience, she has introduced various innovations to improve productivity and product quality. According to Ms. Quyên, this profession is closely tied to machinery used to produce engines, components, and auxiliary parts for motorized vehicles, requiring high technical competence and skills. With passion and a willingness to learn, women can excel in their tasks just as well as men.

For 6 years, Ms. Vo Thanh Mai, who works at VPIC Vietnam Precision Industrial Joint Stock Company (Trang Bom District), has become familiar with the distinctive sounds of mechanical equipment such as grinders, welders, files, and lathes. Choosing a field not traditionally associated with women, Ms. Mai has overcome initial challenges through her determination and support from colleagues, securing a stable position and income.

Ms. Mai explains that while the mechanical field is demanding, requiring daily immersion in the noises of cutting and drilling machines, it has provided her with many new and exciting experiences. This profession encourages creativity, passion, and self-improvement. She shares, “Initially, I felt discouraged because this profession requires constant innovation, especially when companies invest in new machinery and technology, demanding quick adaptability. Over time, I've become proficient in multiple tasks, from operating cutting machines to welding and mold-making, and my work is now on par with that of my male colleagues."

Excelling in Assigned Tasks  

In 2009, Ms. Le Tuyet Nhung (Long Binh Tan Ward, Bien Hoa City) decided to pursue mechanical engineering at a vocational school to follow her passion. Tuyết Nhung admits she never thought of entering the mechanical field, as it is traditionally dominated by men. The more she learned about it, the more she found it intriguing and decided to commit to her studies. After graduating, she joined Perfect Vision Co., Ltd. (Long Thành District).

Despite being physically less robust, Ms. Nhung has consistently excelled in her work, leveraging her knowledge and skills to guide colleagues in completing assigned tasks. “Mechanical engineering is complex due to the many machine components involving new technologies. Drawing from my academic knowledge, support from colleagues, and persistent efforts to learn the structure of each machine, I've succeeded in my career and remain passionate about it," shared Ms. Nhung.

Mr. Nguyễn Trường Thọ, Chairman of the Trade Union at Broad Bright Industrial Co., Ltd., noted that at his company, female workers make up over 20% of the workforce, which consists of more than 300 employees. These women have demonstrated their skills and capabilities through tangible products.

In recent years, the mechanical and electronics sectors have faced labor shortages due to workforce migration, making recruitment increasingly challenging. Consequently, companies have shifted toward hiring female workers. These women receive comprehensive training and adapt quickly to their roles. Female workers now handle tasks such as operating machinery, assembling products, welding vehicle frames, and operating mold stamping and metal cutting machines. Despite appearing physically weaker, they exhibit confidence, professionalism, meticulousness, and dexterity in their work.

At the 2024 annual meeting of the mechanical and electronics trade unions organized by the Provincial Labor Federation, businesses reported a growing trend of hiring female workers in the mechanical sector, which was previously considered a male-dominated field. These positions come with attractive salaries and mark a significant milestone in promoting women's rights in technical industries. Companies also ensure full compliance with policies and benefits, enabling female workers to feel secure and contribute more to their professions.​​