Whitney Jardine

Whitney Jardine is gearing up to be the first female in her company’s tooling engineering department.

Role: Corporate Welding Engineer

Company: The NARMCO Group

How did you discover this industry and what have you found most exciting about it?

I discovered the welding industry in high school and shortly after began my apprenticeship. I combined my love of welding and sciences through the Welding Engineering Technology program at Northern College in Kirkland Lake. I continued my education, completing a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Manufacturing Engineering, and am working toward my PhD in Mechanical Engineering at McMaster University.

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome?

Learning to work with, understand and manage individuals who typically bully their way through a situation, while fostering a positive, encouraging attitude.There were times when my knowledge, skills or importance have been directly questioned, when my male counterparts may not have been. I am proud to stand up and be confident in my own abilities as I am breaking in a new, difficult path as the first female in the Tooling Engineering department. I believe also that emotional intelligence and having an amazing manager who fosters my growth and independence have helped me work through such challenges.

What do you think companies could be doing to attract and retain more women in your field?

Representation really matters. I understand it's a gradual process for us to see more women educated and interested in more industrial careers. The talks should start with the youth as much as possible, to show them the rewarding career paths that can touch so many young people who have mixed skill-sets. The trades and industry can benefit from companies investing in educating their communities' schools and guidance counselors the incredible range there can be in the trades and engineering technologies.

Of what accomplishments are you most proud?

In 2017 I was the sole recipient of the national Hugh Krentz Student Award, rewarding exemplary academic excellence, a demonstrated passion for welding and career interest in the welding industry.

I have also helped with the designs, build and production of several large welded assemblies that make up so many cool vehicles, including the Mercedes EV SUVs, RAM 1500 pickup trucks, and the Hummer EV Pickups.

What does it mean to have MOXY?

To have MOXY is to be a leader. Someone who can take a step back and not only see the bigger picture and think outside of the box; but someone who can also help others take the often intimidating steps out of the box, while working together to contribute toward individual growth.

Who has been your biggest inspiration?

My mother. When she was young, she helped fight for the right for women to work on the railroad and became a conductor while studying for her bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. She became a high school teacher who inspired most of our small town of Chapleau, helping several generations of students grow into their best selves.

What is a must needed skill in order to be effective in your role?

Strong emotional intelligence.