I'd appreciate any recommendations for training classes, both beginning and follow-on advanced courses for a beginning female shooter in the Pittsburgh area. An all-women's course would be great as a first class, at least.

Email this guy: http://www.anti-fragile.net/contact.php

He is part of a training group in that area, and I think his wife and some other females train with them.  I don't think he does any instruction, per se, but they get tons of instructors up there for classes and he could at least point you in the right direction.

I assume you mean Pittsburgh, PA.  If so there are 3 training companies that I'm aware of.

3 rivers tactical has a women's only course in September.

http://www.3riverstraining.com/news/september-13-2014-womens-only-intro-to-handgun

I've taken 2 classes from 3 rivers and will be taking my third at the end of the month.  Very good instructor with real world experience.

Protective shooting concepts also trains at the same range.  I hope to take a class from them next year, but have not trained here yet.
http://www.protectiveshootingconcepts.com


FIRE institute trains at another range on the other side of the city.  Never trained here either but seems to be a reputable place.
http://www.fireinstitute.org

Drive to Steubenville, Ohio and take a class with Frank at S.T.A.R.T. I have driven there for a few classes. Has a great set up, EX SEAL instructor and a good group of R.O.'s to help with his classes.

http://www.strt.us/

Alias training hosts a bunch of courses every year in your area. Took vickers 1911 operator class there last year

I'll second three rivers tactical training solutions. I have attended 3 classes and I am signed up for a 4th in January. John is great dude.