@austinmshauri I work in manufacturing, and it’s been that way since the early 90’s, maybe sooner. That said, back then we still discussed it when management wasn’t around, and I made at least as much if not more than the men who worked there. Everyone started at the same wage, and got raises depending on training, evaluations, and other factors.
I can’t say if that’s still the case because I don’t risk talking about it anymore.