About
Gerard McDonald has been a United Way Board member since 2021 and is currently Chair of the Board.
Gerard retired in 2024 as Chief Executive Officer of Engineers Canada, the national body representing the provincial and territorial regulators of the engineering profession.
Before leading Engineers Canada, Gerard served as Registrar of Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). Earlier in his career, he spent more than 31 years in the Public Service of Canada, primarily in the transportation sector, where he held a number of senior leadership roles, including:
Director of Regulatory Affairs, Privy Council Office
Assistant Deputy Minister of Safety and Security, Transport Canada
Executive Director, Transportation Safety Board of Canada
Director General of Marine Safety, Transport Canada
Why did you join the United Way Board of Directors?
I joined the United Way because I believe real change happens when a community comes together to lift one another up. Throughout my career, I’ve seen how important it is to have strong support systems, and United Way is at the heart of that—connecting people, resources, and ideas to make life better for everyone. For me, it’s about more than giving back; it’s about helping to build a stronger, more caring community where every person has the chance to succeed.
What specific skills, perspective or lived experience do you bring to the United Way Board of Directors?
On the United Way Board of Directors, I bring leadership and governance skills developed over many years in senior roles within government, professional regulation, and the not-for-profit sector. I have extensive experience in strategic planning, accountability, and building consensus across diverse groups—skills that are essential in advancing United Way’s mission.
Equally important, I bring a strong community-minded perspective. Throughout my career and volunteer work, I’ve seen how vital it is to ensure people have access to the supports they need to thrive. Whether it’s through engaging with local organizations, supporting fundraising initiatives, or rolling up my sleeves to take part in community events, I’ve always believed in being an active participant, not just an observer. This lived experience grounds my work on the Board, ensuring that decisions are not only well-governed but also rooted in compassion and a real understanding of the community we serve.