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Women in Leadership Spotlight: Carlee Willson Gurney

  • sonetsmart
  • Jun 4
  • 3 min read

Production Support Foreman, Bilton Welding and Manufacturing Ltd.


Carlee Willson Gurney’s leadership story is one of grit, growth, and resilience - grounded in hands on experience and built over years on the shop floor. Today, she leads Bilton’s machining and material prep teams, but her journey started in 2008 as a third year welding apprentice, back when Shop 5 was still brand new and only half its current size.


“I got my Journeyman ticket that same year and worked in several lead roles in the weld shop,”


After nearly a decade at Bilton, Carlee stepped away in 2017 to explore a different pace of life. She returned in 2020 with a fresh perspective, rejoining as a welder. In 2021, she moved into a lead hand role with the Materials Prep team, and by 2023, she stepped into her current position as Production Support Foreman.


“I always knew that welding was not something I would do forever. As much as I enjoyed it, I realized over time that I could lead and direct a team in a way that was more sustainable for me physically.”


Managing Flow and Leading with Communication

Carlee’s current role is fast paced and complex. She oversees the machining and material prep departments and leads Bilton’s forklift team, ensuring seamless material movement from the earliest stages of production through to final delivery.


“There is always something moving. From the very beginning of production to shipping the final product, material flow is essential.”


For Carlee, communication is what keeps everything running.


“Clear communication is the most important part of my job. Priorities shift constantly, so every day starts with a toolbox meeting to set expectations and respond to changes. Being able to multitask and stay flexible is key.”


From Welder to Foreman

The move into leadership was not without challenges. Carlee accepted the foreman position shortly after returning from maternity leave.


“It was intimidating at first. But I had support from key members of our management team and a strong support system at home. I committed to putting in the extra hours and growing into the role.”


Though the transition was demanding, Carlee saw it as a long term investment in her career and personal development.


Encouraging Women in the Trades

Carlee’s journey is especially meaningful as one of the few women to move into leadership from the trades side of operations. While past spotlights have often focused on office-based roles, her story highlights the impact and importance of women in the field.

Her advice to women entering the trades is rooted in experience.


“Don’t give up. It can be tough, especially early on. When I started welding, I had to prove myself again and again. I took on the dirty jobs, did not complain, and earned my place. That respect was not given. It was earned.”


She believes the environment is changing for the better but still demands consistency and personal accountability.


“Own your mistakes. Do your best work. Take pride in every step. One of the first tips I ever got was ‘get good, then get fast.’ I have carried that with me ever since.”



Balance, Motivation, and Life Outside the Shop

Outside of work, Carlee leads in a different way - as a homeschooling mother of four. Her schedule includes martial arts, park days, and plenty of outdoor activities with her kids, who range from toddlers to teenagers.


“I do not have much spare time, But I enjoy distance running and gardening when I can. Those moments help me reset.”


Leadership Built on Experience

Carlee Willson Gurney’s leadership is built through action, not titles. Her story reflects the strength and commitment it takes to lead from the floor, and her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the many ways leadership can take shape.


At Bilton, we are proud to recognize Carlee’s contribution. Not just as a leader, but as a trailblazer for women in the trades.


Stay Connected

Join us in celebrating Carlee's contributions and the incredible women shaping the future of leadership at Bilton. Stay tuned for more stories that celebrate resilience, innovation, and leadership in action.



 
 
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