LOGAN, OH — A group of adventurous young women from Southern High School in Racine took part in a one-of-a-kind learning experience at the Ohio Operating Engineers Local 18 “She Dig” event on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
“She Dig” is designed to introduce female high-school students to the world of operating engineers — the skilled professionals who run and maintain heavy construction equipment. The program offers a rare chance to climb into the driver’s seat of machinery that powers Ohio’s infrastructure projects and to learn first-hand about a well-paid, in-demand career path.
Upon arrival, the SHS students received a warm welcome from Local 18 staff and volunteers. Each participant was given a commemorative “She Dig” T-shirt and an introduction to the day’s activities.
Several experienced professionals took part in engaging talks about their career journeys — covering everything from training and apprenticeships to job security and benefits. Their presentations balanced the excitement of working with powerful equipment with the responsibilities and safety measures that come with it.
Southern High School graduate Kaden Johnson (Class of 2023) was a guest speaker at She Dig. Now in her second year of a heavy equipment operating apprenticeship, Johnson told students she hopes the program helps them discover whether they’re passionate about the field. She credited the district and the event with shaping her own path:
“I couldn’t thank the school district enough for allowing me to experience She Dig my senior year. It inspired me to step into a rewarding career,” she said.
Johnson added that while the work can mean long hours and challenges, it’s also exciting and fulfilling.
“She Dig is a great event to plant a seed. You have to be willing to try new things — they’ll teach you everything you need to know. The possibilities are endless. I’ve loved every minute of it.”
Then came the highlight of the day: hands-on training. Under close supervision, the Southern High School students had the chance to climb aboard and operate a range of heavy equipment, including forklifts, backhoe loaders, and a crane.
The SHS students who participated in this exciting event were Abigayl Terzopplous, Lydia Harmon, Marcy Evans, Reba Harmon, Skyler Allen, and Victoria Barton. Thanks to chaperones Agriculture Education Instructor Ms. Jenna Meeks and Career Coach Ms. Beth Lanning.
Southern High School Principal Daniel Otto enthusiastically supported the trip, recognizing the event as a valuable work-based learning opportunity that complements classroom education with real-world skills.
“We’re always looking for ways to give our students meaningful, real-world experiences,” said Principal Otto. “The She Dig event opened our students’ eyes to a high-demand career field they might never have considered. Opportunities like this empower our young women to see that they belong in any career they’re passionate about.”
Southern High School extends its heartfelt thanks to Ohio Operating Engineers Local 18 for hosting such an informative, empowering, and fun-filled event — and for the T-shirts, hands-on learning, and lunch that made the day extra special.