BATTLING NEW NORMS

According to the National Association of Women Business Owners, there are now over 12 million women-owned firms in the United States. Boosting the economy with a combined annual revenue of more than $1.8 trillion, trailblazing females are seeking opportunities in fields typically dominated by men. And the Bay area is no exception. From knowing our worth to seeking opportunities that would shock past generations, women now comprise nearly 60 percent of enrollment in universities and colleges, too. In a time where anything is possible, we found a few good women to share an inside look at their career paths that some of us may never have considered. They’ve dared to dream of everything from flying fighter planes to squashing the Don Draper stereotype, and these local ladies are not just surviving, they are thriving.

By CAROLINE EDMONDSON Photos AMBER MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, jonesambermichelle@gmail.com Hair JASON CHAMBERS, HeadDress Salon, 251.689.7427. Makeup COURTNEY MATTHEWS MAKEUP ARTISTRY, Cocokat1978@gmail.com

Location Courtesy of USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, USSAlabama.com