Meet Whitney K. Jardine
Whitney is a Welding Engineering Technologist from Northern College and earned her Manufacturing Engineering Bachelor's and Master's degrees at McMaster University, where she’s currently pursuing her PhD. Her work focuses on welding engineering, quality monitoring, and non-destructive testing, bridging hands-on expertise with advanced research. Her passion for welding began when she was a teenager, working in the welding trade and learning the practical skills that built the foundation of her career. That early experience sparked her drive to pursue engineering and has stayed with her throughout her academic and professional journey. She works as a corporate welding engineer in the automotive industry, where she oversees welding processes, quality standards, employee training, and the development of new vehicle assemblies. She also serves on industry and academic advisory boards, including a provincial engineering council, and has been actively involved in initiatives that support young professionals and women in technology. She co-founded OACETT’s Young Professionals and Women in Technology committees, which now have local representatives across Ontario, these and her other contributions earned her the Fellow OACETT designation. Additionally, she serves on the board of directors for a non-profit organization that supports Francophone women in Southwestern Ontario, focusing on education, awareness, and helping women affected by domestic violence. When time allows, she also teaches in engineering and trades programs at various colleges. She love sharing her passion with students who are just starting out, helping them see the possibilities in STEM and welding. Mentorship and education have always been important to her, and she is driven to help others find their own path in these fields. Outside of her professional and volunteer work, Whitney enjoys woodworking—where she started a small business selling my handmade goods—as well as fishing and spending time outdoors.
PhD in Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, expected graduation 2028
Master of Manufacturing Engineering with distinction, McMaster University, 2020
Certificate of Business Management, Mohawk College, 2018
Bachelor of Technology in Manufacturing Engineering - Co-op, McMaster University, 2018
Advanced Diploma in Welding Engineering Technology - Co-op with distinction, Northern College 2016
Who influenced you to pursue an education and/or career in STEM?
My mom and dad, Ellen and Bill Jardine, have been huge influences in my life, always encouraging my intellectual curiosity and love for learning. My mom, a high school teacher and lifelong advocate for women, has been an incredible role model in breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated spaces. She pushed to become a brakeman and conductor/engineer on the railroad at a time when women weren’t even allowed to take the course and fought for access to railroad bunkhouses. Her drive to create opportunities for women and support education through sports has always inspired me to persevere and help others along the way. My dad sparked my love for hands-on problem-solving and creativity through woodworking and projects around the house, sparked my passion for working with tools and engineering. Together, their constant love, encouragement, and belief in my potential gave me the confidence to follow my passions and build a career in STEM.
What has been your biggest challenge and how did you deal with it?
My biggest challenge has been overcoming periods of depression and anxiety, which affected me both personally and professionally. It was tough to maintain my confidence and focus while balancing the demands of work, school, and my personal life. But through perseverance and seeking support when needed, I learned the importance of mental health and self-care. I took it one day at a time, finding small victories and leaning on trusted friends and family. I also discovered that it’s okay to ask for help and that taking care of yourself is just as important as achieving your goals. These experiences have shaped me into a more resilient and empathetic person, and I now focus on maintaining balance in my life, especially in high-pressure environments. I want others to know that it’s okay to face struggles, and that overcoming them only makes you stronger.
What does your day-to-day role look like?
My day-to-day role is fast-paced and ever-changing. I often have several new assembly projects on my plate, each in different phases. This could involve reviewing designs with integrators, overseeing the construction of assembly cells and fixtures, setting the welds and robots to ensure high-quality assemblies, or supporting the launch of a new cell at a manufacturing plant. I also assist manufacturing plants with assemblies already in production when challenges arise, helping to troubleshoot and resolve welding or process issues. I work closely with many cross-functional teams, collaborating with operators, engineers, maintenance staff, quality teams, and managers to keep things running smoothly. Every day brings new challenges, and I love the variety and problem-solving that come with my work.
“This is me welding in Dad's garage at age 16 in Chapleau, Ontario”
-Whitney
