in 1985. Step Up, NNETW's first program, was made possible by funding from the Vermont Department of Education. 14 women were accepted into the inaugural 13-week course, which provided hands-on instruction in technical skills, plus strength and fitness conditioning, workshops to build self-esteem and employability skills, and education on labor law and employee rights. Parents of young women looking to build a career in the trades will be pleased to know that Northern New England Tradeswomen (NNETW) was founded in St. Johnsbury in 1985 by Ronnie Sandler. The organization's first program, Step Up, was funded by the Vermont Department of Education, and welcomed 14 women into its inaugural 13-week course. This program was designed to give them comprehensive hands-on training in technical skills, plus strength and fitness conditioning, workshops to help build self-esteem and employability skills, and instruction in labor law and employee rights. For over 35 years, NNETW and its Step Up program have been helping young women in Northern New England break into the trades. The program has been successful in giving participants the skills and confidence they need to succeed, and parents should be proud to know that their daughters have access to this valuable opportunity.