BRYAN, Texas — In the year of 2022, more women are stepping into male dominated fields, working in manufacturer companies, becoming wielders, and more.
At Neutral Posture Inc. in Bryan, women aren't just employees, they're leaders who are breaking the glass ceiling.
According to new president Kari Krueger, this is the year for women to demand equal pay and opportunities. Neutral Posture Inc. is a women-owned business manufacture and leader in ergonomics, the study of people's efficiency in a work environment. Neutral Posture Inc. designs work environment products such as cubicles, office chairs fitted to your back, desks, and more.
In Krueger's new role, she said she is thrilled to open the door for women to have pay equity within the company. Typically, she said most manufacturers employ only 30% of women.
"We are already opening doors and breaking down those glass ceilings," Krueger said. "At Neutral Posture, about 50% of our work force is female and 60% of our management team is female so we are not only women-owned but we are also women-run and that is absolutely fantastic especially in an industry that is so male dominated."
In a 2021 study, there were 61.1% male technicians compared to 33.3% of female technicians. March 15th marks National Equal Pay Day, created by the National Committee on pay equity. The day symbolizes how far into the year women must work to earn what men earned in the previous year.
According to business.org, Texas ranks #22 for smallest gender pay gap, Texas women being paid 19% less than male counterparts.
As CEO, Rebecca Boenigk said equal pay is the goal and women should demand it. Neutral Posture's starting rate is $15 an hour and they are always looking to hire, she said.
Dedicated to growing the 30+ year old business, Kruger said their furniture changes people's lives.
"When people are struggling because they are not seated in the chair they need to be in or they do not have their computer set up or desk set up how they need to, it is harmful to their bodies," she said. "We are a hidden gem and we make these incredible products right here in Bryan, Texas. We want to make sure that we can continue to do that and we want to make sure we are known."
