THE Northern Marianas Technical Institute (NMTech) is on a mission to empower women by providing educational opportunities that foster personal and professional growth. Through its diverse range of programs, NMTech equips women with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their endeavors, challenging societal norms and breaking barriers along the way.
Taylor Ada: Opening doors for women’s success
As the Curriculum Coordinator at NMTech, Taylor Ada plays a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s offerings. She emphasizes the importance of supporting women in achieving parity in the business and corporate world, stating, “Supporting women achieve parity promotes diversity and inclusion, which fosters innovation in the business and corporate world. Women who feel valued contribute their fullest potential and increase productivity in the workplace.”
NMTech’s programs span various trades, including Automotive Technology, Baking and Pastry, Cosmetology, Construction, and Culinary Arts, as well as Google Certificates in fields like Project Management, Digital Marketing, and Cyber Security. Ada encourages women to embrace these opportunities, saying, “Women who take advantage of our programs challenge the societal norm or belief that only men being able to perform these tasks.”
Her message to CNMI women is a rallying cry: “As Michelle Obama said, ‘There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.’ For many years, women have been challenged and have faced barriers, and yet women continue to push through all obstacles and shatter ceilings. Remain resilient and stay true to yourself, even when you feel like all the odds are against you. Allow yourself to grow and always celebrate your wins, big or small.”
Dellina Lieto: A culinary journey of self-discovery
Dellina Lieto, a student at NMTech, embarked on a culinary journey that transformed her passion into a profession. “I enjoy cooking and baking. In early 2023, I decided to prioritize my passion in cooking and baking. So, I decided to take advantage of the opportunity to further my knowledge,” she shares.
Through the culinary program, Lieto expanded her catering business and explored new recipes at home. “Since my completion of the Programs, I am able to expand my catering to include dishes and desserts I hadn’t offered prior. But mostly, I’ve enjoyed experimenting new recipes for my kids to enjoy at home,” she says.
Lieto values the credibility and professionalism the NMTech certificate has brought to her business, saying, “Both my Certificate of Completion gives my business a credibility to my professionalism. That although I’ve been told I’m a great baker and cook prior to the programs, that even I could benefit from the teachings offered.”
Her message to CNMI women resonates with the spirit of empowerment: “Women are the caretakers of the world. We nourish, mold and feed our communities through generations. Just as we’ve taught our kids to reach for the stars, we should never stop reaching ourselves. The programs like NMTI, we can nourish and mold and feed our passions, so that we may better ourselves and share it with those around us!”
Nurturing Knowledge, Cultivating Success NMTech’s commitment to empowering women extends beyond the classroom, fostering an environment where knowledge is celebrated and success is nurtured. By providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, the institution inspires women to embrace their passions, challenge societal norms, and shape their own destinies. As Lieto aptly states, “It’s never too late to pursue your dreams.”
Dellina Lieto
Taylor Ada
