Metro Boomin Training Academy’s ‘She Lifts’ transforms workforce development

In a city fighting to build stronger pathways to economic opportunity, the Metro Boomin Training Academy is carving out a new vision. It is rooted in empowerment, accessibility, and intentional inclusion. 

The Academy’s latest initiative, “She Lifts”, marks a monumental moment not only for the Academy but for the city of Jackson itself. As a women only forklift and career readiness program, “She Lifts” directly addresses gaps keeping too many women out of the industrial and technical workforce. And in a region where manufacturing is rapidly expanding, programs like this are poised to reshape opportunities for families for years to come. 

Academy President Richard Bradley captured the spirit of this moment in a powerful statement reflecting both vision and gratitude. “As the President of Metro Booming Training Academy, I proudly emphasize the vital role of women in construction and manufacturing. We firmly believe that empowering women in these fields not only benefits our community but also drives the growth of our economy. We express our heartfelt gratitude to all the women contributing to our workforce, as we recognize that workforce development is fundamental to our success and prosperity.” 

His words highlight the philosophy behind “She Lifts.” This program intentionally is designed to meet women where they are, support them, and prepare them for careers many once thought were out of reach. 

Empowerment Through Intentional Training 

The inspiration behind “She Lifts” was born from what city leaders noticed during the past several years. Women were signing up for training at much lower rates and completing it at even lower rates. Dr. Nicole Charleston, “She Lifts” Program Manager, explained, “Over the last few years, we’ve met countless young women eager for stable, well-paying careers. Yet many hesitate to enroll in our program or don’t complete it because they don’t see themselves reflected in the manufacturing or warehousing industries.” 

While men experienced only a two percent attrition rate, the rate for women rose to nearly 30 percent. Reportedly, many felt isolated in male dominated spaces. Many women felt their abilities were questioned before they even had a chance to learn. 

Instead of accepting these disparities, Academy chose to design a solution. 

“She Lifts” offers women a space where they can learn, ask questions, make mistakes, and grow without the added pressure of proving themselves. “The goal isn’t simply to certify women on equipment. It’s to create a supportive, empowering atmosphere where they can envision themselves in positions they may never have imagined,” Dr. Charleston added. 

Removing Barriers and Raising Confidence 

The power of “She Lifts” lies not only in its technical training but in how intentionally it addresses the invisible barriers that keep women out of the workforce. As Dr. Charleston explained, “One of the most significant barriers keeping women out of industrial and technical careers is not ability, but access, awareness, and environment.” 

“She Lifts” works to eliminate those barriers through career readiness training programs, a supportive women only space where sisterhood is fostered, technical forklift certification leading to immediate employment, and support acknowledging realities like childcare and transportation. 

These are not minor issues. They are the reason many women never take the first step toward high paying technical jobs. By tackling these barriers head on, “She Lifts” is creating a pipeline rooted in encouragement and practicality. 

Creating Safe and Confident Learners 

Hands on forklift training can be challenging. However, “She Lifts” makes comfort a priority by slowly building learners’ confidence long before they ever sit behind a forklift. The first week focuses entirely on personal development, career exploration, conflict management, budgeting, vision boards, and personal branding. 

By the time women begin operating equipment in Week Two, they walk in with a mindset of readiness. Successes are celebrated. Mistakes become learning moments. Confidence grows naturally. By graduation, the ladies leave not only certified but transformed. 

Dual Credentials. Double Opportunity. 

The “She Lifts” program is built to expand choice, increase earning potential, and open long term career pathways. Participants graduate with two powerful credentials, forklift certification and the ACT National Career Readiness Certificate. 

Combined, these credentials signal these prospective employees are technically skilled and ready to enter the workplace. These credentials open doors across warehousing, logistics, distribution, and manufacturing. These industries are central to Jackson’s economic future. 

A Future Built on Accessibility and Inclusion 

Though “She Lifts” is new, the demand is already growing. The Academy plans to expand the program by offering it twice a year while continuing its traditional Career Pathways training for all learners. 

“Our focus is on accessibility and flexibility,” said Dr. Charleston. “Ultimately, the future of both Career Pathways and “She Lifts” is about scaling impact while staying rooted in our mission: removing barriers, expanding opportunities, and creating a clear pathway for participants to enter and thrive in their chosen careers.” 

For additional information on this program, visit https://metroboominc.org.