PORT ARTHUR, Texas — For the first time, the Southeast Texas oil and gas industry is prioritizing women.
This is all thanks to a women's carpentry program at Lamar State College-Port Arthur, that's helping bring diversity.
Originally six students started the 10 week course, but only 3 ladies are crossing the finish line with their certificate.
These women are excited to use their own hands to help continue building the oil and gas industry in Southeast Texas.
"I feel like women can do just as much as men can do. So I'm all about girl power," Student Lasheryl Wilson.
In just two weeks these students will graduate from the all women carpentry class.
"It's a lot but it's all worth it in the end just learning how to build things," Wilson said.
These ladies will have the opportunity to work with Bechtel on the Sempra LNG project. It's a part of an initiative the company has to get more women in the industry.
“It's really amazing that their wanting to invest in woman," said Student Kendall Colpert.
The Vice President of Workforce and Continuing Education at LSCPA Dr. Ben Stafford says the 10 week course was paid for through federal grants and is the first of it's kind.
"Bechtel helps us design the training. They encourage us to hire females for their carpentry classes and truck driving classes. We make a strong effort to help as many local residents as possible," Dr. Stafford said.
Coming to class five days a week, nine hours a day wasn't always easy for the students. Colpert was working and going to school while facing hardships.
"Even though I lost my car I didn't stop coming. So I'm going to make it to the finish line," Colpert said.
Wilson had her own struggles, being a mom of three.
"Whenever she goes to sleep then I'm able to do my homework or go over my notes," Wilson said.
Both Colpert and Wilson come from a long line of carpenters. They are hoping this will change the future of the oil and gas industry in Southeast Texas and carpentry, one brick at a time.
"In the future I would actually like to get with my family and we build us a neighborhood," said Colpert.
"I want to progress maybe become a foreman. My dream is I would like to have a construction company," Wilson told 12News.
Wilson and Colpert will graduate with certificates in levels 1 and 2.
Dr. Stafford says a second carpentry class is starting Monday. If you are interested, you can still join before Wednesday by calling LSCPA at 409-984-6355 and telling them you are interested in the carpentry class.