More than 150 people attended the Women’s History Breakfast Celebration at the Kitsap Conference Center and Bremerton Harborside, March 11.

The event’s theme, “Sharing the Courage and Wisdom,” was about recognizing the roles women have played in recent history. Coordinated by the Professional Women’s Employee Networking Group of PSNS & IMF, Bangor’s Women’s Networking Group, Keyport’s Federal Women’s Program and PSNS & IMF’s Women in Trades, the breakfast celebration featured guest speakers, Bremerton Mayor Patty Lent, and Amanda Sandberg, Boeing product review engineer.

Jim Van Antwerp, technical director, Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Keyport Division, served as Master of Ceremonies. Van Antwerp shared his awe and inspiration on just how far women, in what used to be non-traditional trades and professions, have progressed through the years.

Lent provided a retrospective of her 50-year professional life. Sandberg followed and spoke on her exciting career as an engineer, currently working for Boeing. She recently completed her work at the Kennedy Space Center by being the first female space shuttle engineer to be on the shuttle final inspection team.

As the celebration drew to a close, “Sharing the Courage and Wisdom” appreciation awards were presented to Tracy Williamson, who was recognized for her outstanding achievements in service and mentoring, helping to develop a multitude of women, young and old. Cathy Jett was recognized as one of the founders of Women in Trades and her continued daily service. And finally, with a little levity, awards went to two men, Jim Van Antwerp and Dean Boyer, for their service as the original champions of Professional Women’s Employee Networking Group, helping the group to overcome barriers and develop into the organization it is today.