Dae Stevenson was one of only a few female applicants who applied at the Mount Vernon Department of Public Works’ first-ever job fair.

Impressed by her knowledge of the Sewer Bureau’s operations, DPW officials decided to hire the standout candidate.

Now the department’s first female employee holds a commercial driver’s license that allows her to operate heavy machinery.

Stevenson says she hopes to inspire other women to pursue their career paths no matter their gender.

"My main goal and inspiration for us women, have faith, do what you wanna do, if you feel like it, don't always put yourself in the back”, says Stevenson.