A handful of students recently had a unique opportunity to participate in a special Career and Technical Education workshop, Women in Welding. This engaging event allowed them to meet inspiring women who are professional welders, as well as current academy students pursuing careers in the field. Attendees witnessed live demonstrations showcasing the welders' skills and even got to create their own welding projects! This hands-on experience not only highlighted the importance of women in the welding industry but also encouraged students to explore the possibilities within skilled trades, fostering their confidence and interest in this vital profession.
Thank you to the inspiring women who shared their stories and skills!
- Associated General Contractors of Washington, Sarah Patterson Workforce Development Director
Sarah Patterson has spent her career proving that women belong in welding and construction. Over 15 years, she worked on projects around the world, from South America to Europe to Antarctica. She became the first female Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) in South Carolina, the only lead female welder in the history of South Pole Station, Antarctica, and is part of a small group of women worldwide to earn the prestigious Senior CWI certification.
After years in the field, Sarah found her passion for teaching. As a professor, she taught welding, blueprint reading, and even the science behind welding. Now, she helps schools and businesses work together to create training programs that prepare students for exciting careers in welding and construction.
- Central Welding, Patricia McMahan Regional Sales Manager
Patricia McMahan has built an inspiring 25-year career in the industrial and welding supply industry, fueled by hard work, curiosity, and determination. Starting at just 12 years old in her family’s business, she learned the value of dedication by doing tasks like sweeping and counting inventory. By 16, she was already managing freight, assisting with accounts, and creating specialized tools like hydraulic hoses for loggers. After high school, Patricia joined the company full-time, eventually making history as the first female outside sales representative at Oxygen Sales & Service, showcasing her leadership and breaking barriers in the industry.
Today, Patricia oversees six locations and a team of nine salespeople as Regional Sales Manager for Central Welding Supply. Her commitment to professional growth has helped her drive success, from increasing sales to maintaining the company's strong reputation. Patricia’s journey proves that with persistence and a willingness to learn, girls can achieve great things in traditionally male-dominated fields like welding. She hopes to inspire young women to explore opportunities in welding, showing that a rewarding and impactful career is within reach for those ready to take on the challenge.
- Shelton High School Welding Teacher, Chelsea Jonas
Chelsea Jonas is a high school welding and CAD teacher who is passionate about empowering students through hands-on learning and practical skills. Growing up, she gravitated toward activities like landscaping and fishing—fields where women are often underrepresented. Initially planning to study environmental science in college, Chelsea discovered her true passion in welding, overcoming challenges as the only woman in her program. This experience sparked her commitment to breaking barriers and proving that women belong in every aspect of the skilled trades.
With a professional background in fabrication and shipyard work, Chelsea brings real-world expertise to the classroom, teaching welding and CAD with creativity and enthusiasm. She loves showing students how technical skills like welding and computer-aided design can be both practical and artistic, encouraging them to explore the creative side of these trades. Chelsea’s mission is to inspire the next generation of skilled workers—especially young women—to pursue careers where they can build, create, and succeed.
- Local 26 Apprentice, Amber Fox
Amber Fox, an apprentice plumber with Local 26, is proud to be part of a profession that builds and strengthens her community. Originally from Onalaska, WA, Amber spent six years in the hospitality industry before deciding to pursue a more hands-on, fulfilling career. Drawn to plumbing for its blend of technical skill and tangible impact, she enjoys working on projects that make a difference—like her current work on the new Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital in Tacoma, WA.
Amber values the stability and growth opportunities her trade provides while contributing to meaningful projects. Outside of work, she channels her adventurous spirit into horseback riding, dancing, and snowboarding, demonstrating her love for both creative and physical pursuits. Amber’s journey reflects her commitment to personal growth, community impact, and embracing new challenges with confidence.
- Welding Students, Avyon Camargo and Mary Jose Castro