SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC
Weld a Tipi event sparks interest in trades

Exploring a trade while celebrating her Indigenous culture proved to be a winning combination for Drianna Whitehead.

The Saskatchewan Polytechnic Welding certificate student was inspired to pursue training in the trade after participating in the Weld a Tipi event in Prince Albert hosted by Women in Trades and Technology (WITT) powered by Orano.

She found out about the course offered to Indigenous female high school students through the vice principal of Wesmor Public High School, Mrs. Gunville, who encouraged her to sign up with her sister.

"When I heard it was welding, I was ready to try it," she says. "I was inspired by artists on social media who create sculptures using welding. I thought I could make one of those projects."

The opportunity to be surrounded by female tradespeople was inspirational to Whitehead. After the event, she started to follow female welders on TikTok.

"There are so many career options for welding. I picture myself doing art sculptures on the side while building our economy. I want to create projects in my community of Red Earth and Shoal Lake," she says.

Allison Zerr, WITT program head, says the opportunity for students to explore trades early is essential. The Weld a Tipi event was held twice, in December 2023 and in May 2025. After each event, a participant enrolled in the Welding certificate program. 

"Welding is a trade that students gravitate to out of curiosity. We had feedback that trying welding at an earlier age encourages students to explore trades as a career option," she says.

"There's so much success and learning in one day of training. We hope it encourages girls to try other opportunities WITT offers because they walk away with more confidence."

Whitehead has noticed a big change since her first try at welding.

"There's a major difference from when I did the workshop. I have more control and more arm strength to weld longer. I'm not afraid of the spark. I embrace the flame and the heat," she says.

Her tipi from 2023 is proudly displayed in her family home.

"I was in an art class and I counted all the sides of the tipi. It was a perfect idea to paint a medicine wheel and the seven sacred teachings of wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility and truth," Whitehead says.

Image credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Through WITT's collaboration with Wesmor Public High School, organizers connected with the Indigenous community in a meaningful way.

"We created tipis because we wanted cultural alignment with the participants to help them feel more comfortable when exploring the trade," Zerr says.

In addition to support during the event, Whitehead has benefited from guidance from Indigenous Student Services, Learning Services and Counselling Services, all of which have been vital resources throughout her Sask Polytech journey.

"I was nervous before I started the program, but I was able to show up for myself every day. I've been able to discover new things about myself," she says.

As the eldest daughter and second-born child, Whitehead sets an example for her five siblings.

"I'm a role model for my siblings. We encourage each other. I challenge the stereotypes of being a woman in the trades," she says.

"There are four females in my class. We support each other and motivate each other through the program."

Adds Zerr, "Drianna's story showcases how interest was sparked. She's been taking advantage of networking events and has shared information about WITT to other students. It's fantastic to see. As she advances in the trade, I look forward to seeing how this grows into mentorship and support for future students."

Image credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Learn more about the Welding certificate program.

WITT works with instructors, employers, professionals and non-profits to build curriculum for camps, workshops and mentorship programs that teach women valuable skills and encourage them to pursue careers in trades and technology. Learn more about Women in Trades and Technology (WITT) powered by Orano.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is signatory to the SDG Accord. Sustainable Development Goal alignment is one of the ways Sask Polytech is leading the rise of polytechnic education.