Corporate Deputy Welding Supervisor Whitney McDonald delivered a compelling presentation to the Cincinnati Section of the American Welding Society (AWS). Drawing from her dual experience as both a welder and a commercial diver, Whitney shared candid insights about working in two traditionally male-dominated fields.

She spoke powerfully about the challenges she’s encountered, the resilience required to overcome them, and the pivotal role that mentorship has played in shaping her career. Her story resonated deeply with the audience, which included regular AWS members and several female ironworkers from Local 44 who attended specifically to hear Whitney speak.

The presentation sparked meaningful discussion on the importance of mentorship—both offering guidance and seeking it—as a way to support future tradespeople and help foster greater inclusion and representation in welding and commercial diving.