The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world to share their passion and give you the right tips to stay on top of what’s happening in the welding industry.

In today's episode, we welcome Cassie Zinga, sharing her fascinating journey from winning her high school's construction award to briefly studying firefighting before finding her true passion in Metal Fabrication. Now working as an Apprentice at a Toronto structural company specializing in custom architectural fabrication and public art, she's helping create massive spiral staircases and artistic installations that blend functionality with beauty. Cassie speaks candidly about the mathematics involved in fabrication, the supportive environment she found at George Brown College's Welding Techniques Program, and her current pursuit of Red Seal certification in Metal Fitting and Fabrication.

Follow Cassie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zingawelds/ 

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
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There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member 

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world to share their passion and give you the right tips to stay on top of what’s happening in the welding industry.

The path to finding your place in the welding industry isn't always straight or smooth—sometimes it winds across provinces, through unexpected doors, and even away from the trade entirely before bringing you home. Today's guest is Rainah Lee, a Welder from Mossbank, Saskatchewan. For young women considering welding or already in the field, Rainah offers straightforward advice on establishing firm boundaries, recognizing subtle discrimination, and standing your ground when necessary.

Follow Rainah:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluecollar.customs?igsh=MTQyNDc1NWh6OWZmbQ==
https://www.instagram.com/blue.jean.baby.88?igsh=MW4ybm52NHphaHRkZg==

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member 

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world to share their passion and give you the right tips to stay on top of what’s happening in the welding industry.

Reimagining life through metal art—Codie Aljets from Sage Country Customs takes us on an extraordinary journey from corporate burnout to creative fulfillment. Growing up in a small southern Illinois town of just 150 people, Codie's wanderlust was ignited by grandparents who traveled the world and this adventurous spirit carried him through a winding career path. What distinguishes Codie's approach isn't just his skill with metal—it's the profound meaning he embeds in each creation. Beyond personal commissions, his work has raised nearly $100,000 for cancer organizations, creating impact far beyond what financial donations alone could accomplish.

Follow Codie:
Website: www.codiealjetsart.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sagecountrycustoms/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/codie.aljets/

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member 

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world and unrepresented communities as we continue to strive for a more diverse workforce. Join us as we celebrate National Volunteer Month to showcase the incredible contributions of our Chapter Executives from across Canada and globally.

Please note this episode is a replay, bringing you a blast from the past.

When Allison Zerr swapped her accounting books for a welder's mask, little did she know she'd be igniting a trail for women in the trades. This episode brings you the remarkable journey of Allison, from her small-town roots to leading the Women in Trades program, where she unwraps the challenges she faced, the stereotypes she shattered, and the ceilings she broke – not just glass, but steel too. Her story isn't just about defying odds; it's a beacon for anyone who's ever felt the tug to take the road less traveled in their career.

Follow Allison:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-zerr-a5637b278/?originalSubdomain=ca

WITT Program : https://saskpolytech.ca/programs-and-courses/resources/women-in-trades-and-technology/
https://www.facebook.com/SKPolytechWITT

Find your Local CWBA Chapter Here: https://www.cwbgroup.org/advocacy/membership

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world and unrepresented communities as we continue to strive for a more diverse workforce. Join us as we celebrate National Volunteer Month to showcase the incredible contributions of our Chapter Executives from across Canada and globally.

When Jim Galloway walked into his high school welding shop in Brantford, Ontario, in the 1970s, he couldn't have predicted how far the spark would take him. His journey through the welding industry spans four decades, crossing paths with nuclear power plant construction, cutting-edge research, manufacturing management, and education—creating a roadmap for what's possible in a welding career. What truly sets Jim's story apart is his commitment to community and knowledge sharing by choosing to teach at Conestoga College. He helping develop their renowned Welding Engineering Technology program while maintaining deep involvement with professional associations. 

Find your Local CWBA Chapter Here: https://www.cwbgroup.org/advocacy/membership

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved, and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world and unrepresented communities as we continue to strive for a more diverse workforce. Join us as we celebrate National Volunteer Month to showcase the incredible contributions of our Chapter Executives from across Canada and globally.

"Be patient, try everything, find your niche, and make yourself valuable," is a brief glimpse into the knowledge Shawn Laporte shares from his 30-year journey through the welding industry. Our conversation with Shawn is a masterclass in career resilience, continuous learning, and the impact of mentorship. As Shawn transitioned from hands-on welding to inspection and quality assurance, he found a new purpose in guiding the next generation.

Find your Local CWBA Chapter Here: https://www.cwbgroup.org/advocacy/membership

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved, and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world and unrepresented communities as we continue to strive for a more diverse workforce. Join us as we celebrate National Volunteer Month to showcase the incredible contributions of our Chapter Executives from across Canada and globally.

Discover the fascinating journey of Daniele Calista, a doctoral student at the University of Alberta's Canadian Center for Welding and Joining, as he shares his path from undergraduate studies to specialized research in high-frequency electric resistance welding. This compelling conversation reveals how Daniele's participation in Formula SAE racing sparked his passion for welding, eventually leading to industry-sponsored research that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Beyond research, Daniele discusses his role as president of the University of Alberta's Canadian Welding Association student chapter, highlighting how volunteering develops crucial professional skills that complement technical education. 
 
Ready to connect with the welding community? Join Daniele and other professionals at the CCWJ Annual Seminar in May or Welding Industry Day in June – your next career breakthrough might be just a handshake away!

Follow Daniele:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielecalista/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_c20/

Find your Local CWBA Chapter Here: https://www.cwbgroup.org/advocacy/membership

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved, and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects to welding professionals around the world and unrepresented communities as we continue to strive for a more diverse workforce. Join us as we celebrate National Volunteer Month to showcase the incredible contributions of our Chapter Executives from across Canada and globally.

From Newfoundland to the shipyards of Halifax, John Marshall's four-decade welding journey represents not just a career but a masterclass in adaptability, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of excellence. Beyond technical expertise, John shares wisdom about mentorship, inspection philosophy, and finding fulfillment in quality work. His current volunteer efforts with the CWB Association continue his commitment to advancing the trade and supporting newcomers.

Follow CWBA-Nova Scotia Chapter:
Website: https://www.cwbgroup.org/advocacy/membership/nova-scotia-chapter

Find your Local CWBA Chapter Here: https://www.cwbgroup.org/advocacy/membership

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved, and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects welding professionals around the world and unrepresented communities as we continue to strive for a more diverse workforce. Join us as we celebrate Women Empowerment Month to learn about the incredible contributions of Women in the welding industry and our communities.

After spending years behind a desk crunching numbers and raising three children as a young mother, Jessica found herself craving something that would engage her naturally active personality. Through an exploratory trades program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, she discovered welding – an art form that challenged her physically and mentally while providing the creative outlet she desperately needed. Jessica's story serves as a powerful inspiration for women contemplating a career in the trades or anyone feeling stuck in an unfulfilling job. Listen now to discover how sometimes the brightest futures are forged in the heat of transformation and sparks of courage. What risk might you take today to create your own happiness?

Check out the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work : https://ccrw.org/

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member 

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!

The CWB Association brings you a weekly podcast that connects welding professionals around the world and unrepresented communities as we continue to strive for a more diverse workforce. Join us as we celebrate Women Empowerment Month to learn about the incredible contributions of Women in the welding industry and our communities.

Stepping into the steel industry in her early twenties, Daniela Todaro never imagined she'd be running a company two decades later as President of Quality Plates & Profiles Ltd. Yet her remarkable journey from Logistics Coordinator to President showcases exactly what's possible when determination meets opportunity. Beyond her corporate role, Daniela's decade-long involvement with the Association for Women in the Metal Industries (AWMI) has provided a parallel track for skill development. Beginning as a treasurer and rising to regional director, she's leveraged association work to overcome public speaking fears, build an invaluable professional network, and create pathways for other women. Her dual-track approach to career building offers a blueprint for ambitious professionals in any field.

Follow Daniela:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-todaro-5273a277
Check out AWMI: https://www.awmi.org/

Thank you to our Podcast Advertisers:
Canada Welding Supply: https://canadaweldingsupply.ca/
Canaweld: https://canaweld.com/
Josef Gases: https://josefgases.com/

There is no better time to be a member! The CWB Association membership is new, improved and focused on you. We offer a FREE membership with a full suite of benefits to build your career, stay informed, and support the Canadian welding industry.  https://www.cwbgroup.org/association/become-a-member 

What did you think about this episode? Send a text message to the show!