BUILD WITH US!
2022 Blue-Collar Gala, Auction, & Industry Awards
Oregon Tradeswomen hosted our 2023 Build With Us! Blue-Collar Gala and Industry Awards on September 22, 2022 at The Loft at 8th Avenue.
Thank you to our sponsors, table hosts, nominators and nominees, and auction donors and bidders for coming together to have a lot of fun while raising critical dollars to support the life-changing programs of Oregon Tradeswomen.
2022 Industry Awards
Congratulations to every one of the 2022 Industry Award nominees. Thank you to everyone who made a nomination to recognize leadership and excellence in our industry.
Wanda Hall Legacy Award
This award honors the memory of Wanda Hall, whose steadfast commitment to mentoring and support at the Portland Water Bureau helped many women find rewarding careers in the skilled trades.
Congratulations to the 2022 Wanda Hall Legacy Award Winners:
Pat Daniels, Executive Director, Constructing Hope
Minna Long, Ironworkers Local 29
Frances Michaelson, Independent Contractor
Nominated by Hannah Althea, Carpenter / Natural Builder
Frances is a talented builder and teacher whose mentorship has led to more women discovering a love of the building trades. She continues to impart her expert carpentry knowledge by hosting workshops and taking new tradesfolk under her wing.
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Nicole Brewer, Certified Fire Investigator
Nominated by Wendy Stanley, Portland Fire & Rescue
Nicole is a trailblazer in the male-dominated firefighting trade. She rose through the ranks quickly and efficiently and has been recognized nationally as an experienced Fire Investigator. With her leadership, her industry sees more and more women joining the ranks.
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Pat Daniels, Executive Director, Constructing Hope
Nominated by Amanda Webber, Executive Assistant, Constructing Hope
As Executive Director at Constructing Hope, Pat's vision, determination, and sacrifices have led to the growth of the organization exponentially. Not only does she ensure the success of people of color and women in the trades, but she is an inspiration for everyone who works with her.
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Mary Hammer, Boilermaker, Journey Level 2 Supervisor 2
Nominated by Marie Benedetti, Vigor
Mary is a Master of her craft who helps others identify and achieve their own mastery. Throughout her impressive career, Mary has made an impact on countless tradesworkers. She has a special ability to connect with people and the patience to support and guide others when they need help. Mary isn't afraid to speak up and hold people accountable for their actions and models doing the right thing.
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Minna Long, Ironworkers Local 29
Nominated by Anna Martin, Journeyman Ironworker, Ironworkers Local 29
Minna's humble leadership is rooted in generous acts of service that uplift her fellow tradesworkers. From offering childcare to allow some female apprentices the opportunity to attend classes, to volunteering for women's committees and mentoring Oregon Tradeswomen pre-apprentices, Minna ensures that everyone feels supported.
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Lisa Pickert, Safety Manager, Neil Kelly Co. Inc.
Nominated by Valerie Garrett, Neil Kelley Co Inc.
With her 30+ years in the construction industry, Lisa is a steadfast and personable leader who carries great enthusiasm for the trades. Workplace safety is crucial for Lisa and she strives to impart the values of safety upon all her colleagues. Lisa makes sure to nurture the talent of new workers and women in the trades, always having their best interests at heart, and is committed to giving back to her community.
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Carly Rush, Safety Professional, Alliant Systems, SMART Local 16
Nominated by Tara Johnson, Alliant systems
Carly is a non-stop advocate for women and youth in the trades. Outside of being a Sheet Metal Safety Manager, she is committed to supporting other women to join the ranks and is heavily involved in her community.
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Rachel Stark, Journey Carpenter, Teacher, and Recruiter, Northwest College of Construction
Nominated by Amy Lund and Sara Brady, Northwest College of Construction
Rachel is a carpenter who started from the bottom and worked her way to the top. Combining her love of the trades with her passion for teaching and mentoring, she now guides high school students, pre-apprentices, apprentices into successful careers in the trades. Her work inspires self-actualization and self-confidence in all her students.
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Vanessa Steward, NW Regional Rep #1, SMART Local 16
Nominated by Korri Bus, Sheet Metal Worker, SMART Local 16
Vanessa was the first woman to hold office in SMART Local 16. She is always available to offer assistance to her team and has become the go-to person for advice and a helping hand. Her ability to push people to be their best selves has made a positive impact on many.
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Amelia Templeton, Apprentice Plumber, UA Local 290, and Alliant Systems
Nominated by multiple nominators at Alliant Systems, LLC
Even as the youngest member of the crew, Amelia is a strong, hardworking, and reliable team member beloved by everyone who works with her. Amelia is known to uplift her coworkers and step in as a leader without being asked. Being a role model for women in the trades, she gives her time to recruit and mentor other women in her community and leads by example.
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Laurel Willi, Advocate and Case Manager
Nominated by Shannon Marie Sovern
Laurel has been a great support and resource for women in the trades. She is not one to back down or give up while also being known for her professionalism. Her advocacy has prompted the hiring of more women in construction.
Equity Champion Award
Oregon Tradeswomen honored Maurice Rahming, President of O'Neil Electric as the 2023 Equity Champion awardee for his longstanding and intense commitment to creating a more equitable industry for all tradesworkers.
Woman on the Rise
This award recognizes tradeswomen with an exceptional work ethic, who demonstrate leadership, and are contributing to our industry.
Congratulations to our 2022 Woman on the Rise Award Winners:
Pictured from Left:
Sam Wright, Foreman Carpenter / Piledriver, Skanska
Amelia Templeton, Apprentice Plumber, UA Local 290, and Alliant Systems
April O’Neal, Assistant Superintendent, LMC Construction
Ashley Haysom, Foreman Steamfitter, UA Local 290
Irais Gandarilla, Steamfitter Training Coordinator, UA Local 290
Karrynn Anzorena-Macarthur, Welder
Nominated by Joshua Bicchinella, Charter College
Karryn is not only a skilled welder, but a great person to work with. Her ability to build solid relationships with those around her greatly benefitted the welding experience for everyone. Karryn proved her skill as a welder when she came out on top at a welding competition, showing that skill, aptitude, and talent is not limited by gender.
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Anjanet Banuelos Bolanos, LiUNA Local 737
Nominated by Jennifer DeCent, LiUNA Local 335
Anjanet has dedicated her life to her trade. She is always standing up for people and equality, connecting those in need with resources. On the job, she is a great teacher, and inspires people everywhere she goes. Her humble leadership is not unseen.
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Cindy Benton, Carpenter Foreman, Carpenters Local 1503
Nominated by Chad Barton, Lease Crutcher Lewis
Safety is paramount in the trades and Cindy knows it. She is a natural leader who is passionate about keeping everyone safe on the job site. She communicates job-site expectations clearly and holds people to them, leading to the increased quality of her project outcomes. Cindy is also a great advocate for inclusion, making sure all members of the team feel safe to be authentic at work and see themselves as integral parts of the project.
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Maya Berns-Janousek, Foreman, Lease Crutcher Lewis
Nominated by Lauren Holmes, Manager, Lease Crutcher Lewis
Maya doesn't let problems stand in her way! As a leader, Maya is collaborative when coming to a solution. Maya's team knows that if she says she will do something, she will follow through. She has mentored and supported other tradesworkers and will always advocate for those who are left behind.
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Brit Campbell, Facilities Maintenance Technician Manager, Common Ground Wellness Cooperative
Nominated by Christine Stuber, Co-worker at Common Ground Wellness Cooperative
Brit is known as a kind boss who is collaborative, focused, and determined. Whether she is looking to adopt earth-conscious building techniques or learn the newest techniques in her craft, she is always focused on progress. She sets an example for tradeswomen everywhere.
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Ann Cleary, Lead Technician and Maintenance, Living Room Fixers
Nominated by Ash Jimenez, Supervisor, Living Room Fixers and Janelle Grizzard, Co-worker, Living Room Property Management
Ann is always up for any task and brings deep knowledge to the work they do. Ann is always looking to expand and grow their skills while also taking others under their wing.
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Denise Deherrera, Union Laborer Apprentice
Nominated by Theresa Armstrong, Mother
Denise overcame incredible barriers to be where she is today. Her experiences with houselessness and drug abuse lend to the incredible empathy she exhibits on the job every day. When her teammates are struggling, she steps up to assist them even if the help needed isn't specific to the job at hand. Denise knows how the trades create a foundation for a better life and she does everything she can to be sure those around her also have a chance at a bright future.
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Irais Gandarilla, Steamfitter Training Coordinator, UA Local 290
Nominated by Bob DeGraw, Co-worker, UA Local 290 Training Center
Irais has a diverse background of certified trade experience and is dedicated to her trade and community. She is someone who makes people feel welcome and supported on and off the job-site. Irais sits on multiple committees in her union and serves as Local 290's Sergeant at Arms. Irais also uses her time off the job-site to do outreach and inspire more women to join the trades.
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Krystal Gilman, Laborer Associate, Vigor
Nominated by Marie Benedetti, Labor Relations/HR Manager
At every opportunity, Krystal goes above and beyond. She is always grabbing tools and trash around the site to keep things in order, showing that there is no job too big or too small for anyone. Dedicated to safety, Krystal addresses issues she sees on the job and often comes up with great solutions to any problem. She is always there to help anyone who needs guidance and models kindness and fairness in everything she does.
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Carter Gulacy, Carpenter / Assistant Superintendent, Howard S. Wright
Nominated by Megan Cook-Eichelberger, Co-Worker
Carter is a reliable and knowledgeable leader who works to build relationships on the jobsite. Her ability to work with all personalities and backgrounds has been a massive key to her success in her field, as well as the way she listens and responds to the needs of all workers on the site. Because of this, Carter has created an environment where everyone can grow and excel in their careers.
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Mackenzie Grammer, Business Agent, IBEW Local 103
Nominated by Reneeleona Dozier, Union Sister, IBEW Local 103
As a young woman in the trades, Mackenzie has shown incredible initiative. Even though she is an apprentice, Mackenzie already holds her Journey license! She is always the first to step up for any task and even gives her time to volunteer opportunities to benefit her community and represent the Sisterhood.
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Ashley Haysom, Foreman Steamfitter, UA Local 290
Nominated by Liz Howard, PMCA
Ashley is a humble, yet confident leader with a fierce passion for her trade and her community. She has proved herself as a leader by committing time and effort in numerous groups working to better the mental health of tradesworkers, increasing Diversity Equity and Inclusion efforts in Local 290, and other initiatives to improve systems within the union. Because of her dedication to making progress, she is well-respected throughout her Local.
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Sophia Hederman, Carpenter
Nominated by James Craig, WPI
Sophia is one of the most productive workers on her job-site. Her competitive attitude inspired others to work harder and better. Because of her positive influence, Sophia is now leading the crew!
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Laura Hibbits, Laborer Foreman/Fortis
Nominated by Zack Culver, Business Manager of Local, LiUNA Local 737
Laura is a dedicated tradesworker who made huge leaps in her career after she journeyed out. In just under a year after becoming a certified Laborer, Laura was promoted to Foreman because of the way she leads by example for her crew.
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Miranda Jenniches, IUOE Local 701
Nominated by Janett Arellano, UA Local 290 and Tradesworker Equity Council Member
Miranda is an authentic person who has paved the way for women in the trades. She never gives up and remains undeterred by obstacles. Miranda shines in her ability to lend a hand and see the good in people and situations. She is an inspiration to those around her because of how she lives through her values and with her words and deeds.
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Michelle Layne, Instructor, Laborers
Nominated by Jasmine Maisonet, ANEW
As an instructor, Michelle is shaping the minds of the next generation of tradesworkers. The pre-apprentices she works with love learning from her. Michelle makes sure to model a great positive attitude, a dedicated work ethic, and a drive to support her team. In times of crisis, Michelle can be counted upon to step up to the plate and keep work moving forward smoothly.
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Michelle Lewis, General Construction Inspector
Nominated by Wendy Alexander, Co-worker, ACMS Northwest, LLC
Michelle started in the trades with no experience, but her hard work and determination led her to take the General Inspector exam and pass on the first try, a truly unique accomplishment. Her fearlessness and positive attitude inspires all who work with her and she is committed to leading by example.
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Heather MacLiesh, Journey Level Sheet Metal worker, Single Point of Contact
Nominated by Marie Benedetti, Labor Relations/HR Manager
Supervisors want Heather on their team not only because of her welding skills, but because of her team building. She has the ability to recognize when someone is struggling and always steps in to support. Having proven herself as a Journey-level welder and selfless leader, Heather was trusted with the responsibility to shape the new role of "Single Point of Contact" between Vigor and 24 union affiliates, a great responsibility!
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Athena Meyer, Sheet Metal Apprentice
Nominated by Raymon Brison, Safety Manager, General Sheet Metal
A positive attitude and outstanding work ethic is what Athena brings to work every day. She leads by example but isn't afraid to ask for assistance when needed. Athena is always looking to support her team and models the core values of GSM's caring culture making her an emerging leader in her field.
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Lisa Mitchell, Electrical Inspector, IBEW
Nominated by Lisa Dickenson, IBEW
Lisa's 30 years in the industry has proven that women are capable of achieving anything they put their minds to. She stepped into leadership in her union and supports efforts to engage and uplift under-represented workers in the trades. She is actively building a women's committee for her local and is fundraising to allow more tradeswomen to access professional development opportunities.
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Jessica Montalvo, EIS Carpenter Apprentice, Local 146
Nominated by Jeff Hartung, General Foreman, Local 146
Jessica's strengths don't stop at being a skilled carpenter, her ability to listen and communicate clearly make her an asset for her team, and a reliable instructor even as an apprentice! She shows additional leadership through her involvement in union sub-committees and being active in her community.
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Heather Myers, Painter Associate 4
Nominated by Marie Benedetti, Labor Relations/HR Manager
Heather shows incredible attention to detail and an ability to leave work better than she found it. She has proved herself as a leader by being so prepared in her role that she was able to stand in for a supervisor and keep the department operating smoothly. Heather's voice is respected by her colleagues, and she consistently demonstrates the ability to keep an open mind and consider the perspectives of others.
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April O’Neal, Assistant Superintendent, LMC Construction
Nominated by Michelle Pickett, Co-Worker, LMC Construction
April worked hard to rise through the ranks at LMC Construction as an Assistant Superintendent. She is known to be approachable and someone that you can count on for help. April makes huge efforts to be involved in her community and build good relationships in the industry, all with the intent to make the world a better place.
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Jessica Peiffer, Carpenter
Nominated by James Craig, WPI
As a responsible and eager tradesworker, Jessica inspires those she works with. From the fruits of her hard work and determination, she is already looking at becoming a Foreman carpenter!
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Heather Rosen, Foreman, Glaziers Local 740
Nominated by Jay Long, Superintendent/co-Worker Glaziers Local 740
Heather is hardworking, safe, smart, and outspoken. Her drive to be the best glazier she can be is an inspiration to others. She is already steps ahead when at work and impresses others with her innate ability manage materials on the jobsite without being asked. She always steps up to the plate and delivers.
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Gabrielle Saylor, Foreman, IBEW 613
Nominated by Nia Mandela, Colleague, IBEW 613
As the highest performer in her class, Apprentice of the Year in her Local, and President of the Atlanta Electrical Minority Caucus, Gabrielle makes it her priority to help others in her trade. Whether she is teaching new skills or getting involved in initiatives to get work tools to new tradesworkers, she is always looking for ways to uplift the people around her.
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Julie Smith, Foreman Laborer/RDF, LiUNA Local 737
Nominated by Zack Culver, Business Manager, LiUNA Local 737
Julie has been dedicated to the trades ever since she was a pre-apprentice. She takes pride in her work and is a leader on the job-site every day. Because of her hard work, Julie was able to swiftly work her way up the ladder and is now a Foreman Laborer.
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Amanda Sprinkling-Felt, Home Inspector, True Home Inspection Services
Nominated by Wren Shiffler, Co-worker, Urban Nest Realty
Amanda is always making an effort to learn and improve their craft. They are thorough, knowledgeable, and an excellent communicator. Amanda's presence inspires calm, and they are always looking to uplift other tradeswomen.
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Brittany Smith, Ironworker Apprentice
Nominated by Francesca Petrie, HR Manager,Vigor
A quite, capable leader, Brittany is committed to being the best on the job. Her flexibility to step into demanding, long-distance projects, her attention to detail, and her professional demeanor has led to Brittany being a key member of her team and the root its success. As the only woman on her job-site, Brittany proves to all the men she works with that women DO have the will and strength to excel in the skilled trades.
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Brianna Stanfield, Sheet Metal Apprentice
Nominated by Rob Murray, Foreman, General Sheet Metal
From the beginning, Brianna has been invested in her work in the sheet metal trade. Still an apprentice, Brianna has been stepping up to teach new crew members, and even apprentices of higher rank, how to do many things on the job site. She always looks to problem solve to create higher efficiencies, making her a valuable asset to her team.
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Amelia Templeton, Apprentice Plumber, UA Local 290, and Alliant Systems
Nominated by multiple co-workers, friends, and her parents
Even as the youngest member of the crew, Amelia is a strong, hardworking, and reliable team member beloved by everyone who works with her. Amelia is known to uplift her coworkers and step in as a leader without being asked. Being a role model for women in the trades, she gives her time to recruit and mentor other women in her community and leads by example.
Robin Thomas, Electrical Apprentice
Nominated by Nicki Halin, Apprentice Coordinator, Central Electrical Training Center
Robin is a Class Representative for her apprenticeship class and is incredibly involved in her union. She steps up to volunteer with the Sisters of 280 and attends every meeting as one of the most active member in the committee. Robin is an example to others as a woman who had a dream and worked hard to achieve it.
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Molina Weiser, Foreman Laborer/Howard S. Wright
Nominated by Zack Culver, Business Manager, LiUNA Local 737
As a foreman, Molina gives other women in her trade something to look forward to. She has worked hard to advance her career as a leader and always represents her trade by sharing the opportunities available with the Laborers in hopes of inspiring more women to follow their ambitions.
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Samantha “Sam” Wright, Foreman Carpenter / Piledriver, Skanska
Nominated by Sarah Dunn, Coworker, Skanska USA Building
Sam has made a huge impact on her job-site as a leader who is committed to everyone she works with. Her influence has led to a more team-oriented environment and better performance in safety and quality. Inspired by those who took her under their wing, Sam strives to give the same support to others.
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Jana Zavala, Owner & President HER Roofing Company
Nominated by Kayla Mae Kincaid, Employee
From roofing, to manufacturing, to being a national trainer, Jana has done it all. This inspired her to start HER Roofing where she gives excellent support to her staff and subcontractor crews, even helping some employees with tuition if they choose to pursue further education. Jana's leadership is build on a foundation of Honesty, Equality, and Respect for all!
2019 Tradeswoman Storyteller, Ana Bradley