Women in Weights and Measures Article
For many of us, the most meaningful part of the work is consumer protection. Knowing that our measurements help ensure fairness, often invisibly, gives the work weight *pun intended*. Jenny Adair (Louisiana) described it as being the backbone of commerce, a behind the scenes role that satisfies a deep sense of justice. Heather Exner (Texas) spoke about calibrating 5 gallon test measures and realizing just how directly our work affects what people pay for every day. As Keri Schatte (Texas) notes, our measurements matter and while it can be challenging, it’s just as rewarding. And then there’s the work behind the work. Many outsiders assume laboratory metrology is “just slinging weights.” Those of us inside the field know better. Measurement uncertainty, documentation, traceability, quality systems, judgment calls…this is mentally demanding work that often comes with a physical component as well. It’s a gray collar profession in the truest sense: both technical and hands on. Keri reflects on how in depth each measurement is and the training needed to complete it. Georgia put it plainly: laboratory metrology requires deep expertise and is often underestimated by those unfamiliar with it. That misunderstanding can be frustrating, especially when decisions are made by people who don’t yet grasp the metrology world. But when understanding does come, appreciation usually follows. As women, our experiences in the field vary, but there are common threads. Some of us were the first. I was the first female legal metrologist in Texas, and today there are three of us. Others entered environments where women were few and expectations were low. Jenny shared how being physically capable in a demanding role often surprised people who underestimated her. Kate watched the profession change over time and credits that experience with making her resilient and, by her own admission, stubborn in the best way. What’s striking is how many women say gender wasn’t the defining factor - competence was. Education, confidence, and consistency carried more weight than titles or assumptions. Georgia emphasized lifelong learning and precise language (she’ll still tell you to look it up in the VIM). Several women spoke about mentors, both men and women, who supported them early on, and about communities like SWAP, NCSLI, CALM, and regional groups that helped them grow.
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