Zella McBerty facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Zella McBerty
Zella McBerty, from a 1923 newspaper
Born	Zella Helwick 1879 Mineral Ridge, Ohio, US
Died	1937 Ohio, US

Zella McBerty (born Helwick, 1879–1937) was an American businesswoman and engineer. She achieved many important things in a time when it was unusual for women to work in these fields.

Early Life and Career

Zella Helwick was born in 1879 in Mineral Ridge, Ohio. Sadly, her parents passed away shortly after she was born. Later, she moved to Warren, Ohio.

In Warren, she met Fred McBerty while they both worked at a company called Packard Electric. Zella and Fred later got married.

A Pioneer in Business

Together, Zella and Fred McBerty bought a company called 'The Federal Machine and Welder Company'. Zella became the chief financial officer for the company. This meant she was in charge of all the money and finances.

She also traveled internationally to represent the company at important meetings. She was a true leader in the business world.

Breaking Barriers in Engineering

Zella McBerty was a trailblazer in the field of engineering. In 1924, she made history by being the first woman to attend the International Association of Electric Welders conference. This important meeting took place in London.

Important Groups She Joined

Zella was also very active in groups that supported women in business and engineering. She was the president of her local Business and Professional Women's Club. She was also an international member of the Women's Engineering Society.

Additionally, Zella McBerty was one of the very few women who were members of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers. These memberships showed her dedication to her profession and to helping other women.

Later Life

Zella McBerty passed away in 1937 from a heart attack. She left behind a legacy as a successful businesswoman and a pioneering engineer.