Sisters in STEM: Skilled Sparks with DeIla Ray

ABOUT OUR GUEST:  

DeIla Ray is a seasoned welder with a deep love for the skilled trades. Her career began as a traveling pipe welder, taking her across the country. In recent years, DeIla discovered a new passion for inspiring the next generation. She will be entering her 3rd year as a welding instructor, sharing her knowledge and experience with future welders.

DeIla's dedication extends beyond the classroom. She is a prominent figure in the industry, serving as the Vice President of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Central Missouri Chapter #341 and the National Tradeswomen Committee Co-Chair. This year, DeIla will be installed as the President of NAWIC Chapter #341 as well as the National Tradeswomen Committee Chair. 

With the unique blend of experience, passion, and leadership, DeIla’s journey from welder to instructor is a testament to her dedication to the trades. DeIla's insights will be valuable to anyone interested in the skilled trades.

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QUOTES AND KEY TAKEAWAYS

“Seeing what is possible is what kept drawing me in. Every time I would level up and succeed in something.  It was still that added attraction of I have done it and continue to do it.” 

“Accepting the chaos.”

“Looking back now, if I would not have said yes to trying something new I would not be where I am today.  That is one of the coolest things.  It is like a ‘whose done it’ story.  I never had the experience and look where it took me – just from saying yes and taking on a challenge.”

“There is just something about putting that hood down; I was immediately drawn to it. It was, ‘How much more can I get?  Do I have to sleep? Can I keep doing this?’”

“The opportunity of the trades is what enticed me in the beginning. Realizing I was one of the only on the only ones there was also a little enticing. I am a pretty bold person; I beat to my own drum most of the time.“

“I am creating a space here for other women and young girls to see that they can do it too.” 

“Male dominated taking away the light on the fact that women can be there too. If we can say ‘male populated; there it indicates there be more males there but it does not mean that males are the only ones that can dominate in that field.”

“Imposter syndrome can creep up on people.  They do not think you are supposed to be there so why should you think you are supposed to be there. You should know that, if are going to insert yourself somewhere and put time and effort into it, you deserve to be there.”
 
 “If you have that thought, that desire, don’t let it fade away.  Try it out.  You may find your passion and not even realize it.”

“If you can imagine it, you can create it. If you can dream it, you can become it.”  William Arthur Ward