daniela torelli

It was 6 years ago that I decided to change my career from a Vet Technician to a Welder. I was searching for my independence and I did not want to have to depend on anyone financially, which made me start looking into the different trades. Skilled trades offer higher paying jobs and an endless supply of work available. I took a chance on a 1-year welding program with Sheridan College and fell completely in love with welding and what it had to offer. Since completing trade school, I have obtained numerous CWB/TSSA welding tickets, Level 1 Welding Inspection Certification and a wide range of welding jobs that has led me to my dream job – teaching. I am beyond thankful for the Canadian Welding Bureau to take a chance on me as an Assistant Instructor and being promoted to a full-time Program Instructor/Developer . I had no idea how much I would love teaching and it brings me great joy to share my experiences and to help new students through their struggles at the start of their welding careers. 

My second job title is a mom of a wild 2-year-old. My biggest challenge of my welding career was not just being a woman in the trades, but a pregnant one. At the time I did not know anyone else that had welded pregnant, but I was determined to continue my job with my doctor’s guidance. It is amazing the strength a woman’s body has while growing a human. I managed to work in a welding shop until I was 7 months pregnant, and I do not regret any moment of it.  The experience left me stronger than ever, and I will continue to share my experience that you can have a healthy baby and still work in a male dominated industry. 

I was honoured to be interviewed as a Women of Steel for the CWB WELD magazine, Spring 2021 Edition, with the chance to share my story worldwide in a magazine dedicated to the welding industry. To have someone else write down my story and describe me with words from their perspective, brought tears to my eyes. I was completely stunned and in shock to find myself on the cover of the magazine as well as the article. This was an experience I am going to treasure forever and forever grateful. I am proof that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and follow your passions and goals. Register for a FREE membership for the CWB Association to view the WELD magazine online. 

My obsession with horses started when my mother got me a pony for my 2nd birthday party. I started riding horses when I was a little girl and have never stopped. I am thankful for all the years I have worked at different horse farms for giving me all the knowledge and confidence I have gained.To be able to combine 2 passions of welding and horses together was the perfect start of my business. 

Growing up my nickname was Quasimodo - The Hunchback of Notre Dame, that's because I too had a hunch back. I was born with Severe Scoliosis and did not find out until I hit a growth spurt at 7 years old and then my life changed drastically. Since then I have had 7 Spinal Surgeries and have Titanium rods holding up my spine. You could say I am built tough. Although my spine will never be completely straight and doctors have done all they can for me, I will continue to not let my pain or medical condition slow me down.

I am a proud member of the South Simcoe Arts Council @SSACArts4All and you can find a variety of my items in their store, FortyOne:Local Art Market in Alliston! I try to spend any free time I have volunteering in the store. In 2020, I entered my first Art Exhibition called Arts on Main. I won the People's Choice Award with my metal art piece called Reckless Love. Support your local art community!

92.1MYFM hosts a campaign every year called Women of Influence where they showcase different women in our community. I am a proud supporting sponsor of this campaign!