In Weld County, home to the company’s original Corporate Headquarters in Greeley, Colorado, since 1937, this commitment is reflected through ongoing partnerships that align with 51�Թ�’ values and its belief in Building Together.��

51�Թ� supports communities through volunteerism, charitable giving and partnerships that strengthen local resources and improve quality of life. In Weld County, the company gives back by supporting housing initiatives, food security programs and educational opportunities. 

Through these long-standing relationships, 51�Թ� and its employees consistently contribute both financially and through hands-on service. Each year, the company supports organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Weld County residents, working beyond the jobsite to strengthen the communities where employees live and work. 

Investing in Housing and Community Legacy in Weld County 

Habitat for Humanity

Through its partnership with Habitat for Humanity, 51�Թ� supports affordable housing initiatives in Weld County. Employees volunteer on build days, working together while helping local families achieve homeownership, demonstrating the company’s commitment to community involvement in action.

Catholic Charities – Samaritan House Greeley

51�Թ� supports Samaritan House Greeley through annual donations and volunteer efforts. This partnership provides shelter, resources and dignity to individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity in Weld County. 

Greeley Family House and Weld Food Bank

Addressing food insecurity and family stability is a priority for 51�Թ�’ local community support efforts. Through food drives, volunteer days and financial contributions, the company supports Greeley Family House and Weld Food Bank—organizations serving families facing hardship throughout Northern Colorado. 

This work reflects a broader commitment to corporate volunteerism in the construction industry, helping 51�Թ� play a role in transforming the industry through service-driven leadership by actively contributing their time and resources to meet critical community needs. 

Supporting Education and Community Connection in Greeley 

Rodarte Community Center

51�Թ� supports the Rodarte Community Center, a vital resource providing educational, recreational and enrichment opportunities for families and youth in Greeley. Through this partnership, the company helps advance programs that encourage learning, creativity and community connection. 

As part of this commitment, 51�Թ� participates in the Rodarte Community Center Readathon. This initiative promotes literacy and a love of reading among local youth while bringing employees together around a shared goal that supports education and lifelong learning. 

51�Թ� Community Involvement Beyond the Jobsite 

At 51�Թ�, building does not stop when a project is complete. These partnerships represent just a portion of the organizations supported annually in Weld County and across the nation as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to community involvement. 

Through sustained engagement with local organizations, 51�Թ� works alongside its partners to create lasting impact. The company’s efforts in Weld County demonstrate how 51�Թ� strengthens communities nationwide through consistent, value-driven action. 

Community involvement remains central to 51�Թ�’ core values, reflecting the same principles that guide its construction projects—collaboration, accountability and care. This alignment underscores the company’s role as a leader in construction company community support and corporate volunteerism. 

Visit the 51�Թ� Community page to learn more.

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This initiative reflects 51�Թ�’ core values and ongoing efforts to empower trade partners through resources that encourage growth, professional development and operational excellence. Attendees who participated in at least six the seven sessions have been provided a complimentary copy of Victor’s new release,

Building Strong Foundations for Construction Trade Partners

The Managing the Profitable Business series explored what Victor calls the “5-Bs” of Project-Based Business. These five critical functions determine success for construction companies: business development, bidding, building, billing and banking.

Each session unpacked a key aspect of how small business trade partners can gain clearer visibility and control over their operations.

1. The 5-Bs of Project-Based Business — The opening session previewed the five critical functional business areas for running a construction business with clear visibility and control.
2. Business Development: Crafting a One-Page Strategic Action Plan — Thoughts, ideas, and concepts only become real when these elements are put to paper. Attendees learned how to use these elements to craft a powerful one-page marketing plan.
3. Bidding: Fundamentals of Construction Estimating & Bidding — This session demonstrated the workflow of estimating, and how best to organize and build your estimating templates to accurately capture labor, materials, equipment and other direct costs.
4. Building: Pre & Post Award and Contract Close-Out Recordkeeping — Post award contract management involves the optimization and monitoring of contract performance to ensure that contractual obligations are met by both parties within the agreed timeframe and budget.
5. Billing: Introduction to Basic Job Cost Accounting & Recordkeeping — Job Cost Accounting allows you to track financial details to see what is going on within your jobs. If you can track and measure what is happening, you can better control the profitability of every project.
6. Banking: Building (Financial) Capacity — Tyler discussed how to read basic financial statements, the purpose of each component and understanding the importance of maintaining complete and accurate financial records.
7. Human Capital: The Common Thread In The 5bs — The final session focused on how a small business can build and maintain compliance through organizational structure, workforce development, key performance management and ethical compliance throughout the organization.

Insights from 51�Թ�’ Trade Partners

Attendee feedback highlighted the practical value of the sessions, sharing their appreciation for the opportunity to gain insight from an experienced architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry leader and to connect with peers facing similar challenges.

Testimonials like these reaffirm 51�Թ�’ commitment to supporting small business trade partners. By connecting construction trade partners with educational resources such as this complimentary webinar series, the company aims to remove barriers to knowledge and create greater access to tools that help businesses grow. This approach supports stronger, more capable partners who are better equipped to deliver exceptional results on every project they serve.

Building Future Partnerships

51�Թ� remains dedicated to offering opportunities for learning, mentorship, and collaboration to its network of subcontractors. Ready to join 51�Թ�’ network?

Become a trade partner → Learn more →

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Early Outreach and Local Relationships

Small business engagement begins long before contracts are awarded and construction starts. Many qualified local firms have the skills to perform the work but often lack access to information, decision-makers and a clear roadmap for how to participate in large public programs.

That is why 51�Թ� prioritizes early outreach and relationship-building. At BNA, the team participated in more than 12 career fairs and hosted more than 20 jobsite tours. At BNA and CMH, teams hosted outreach events and weekly office hours, supported by project websites and online portals that connected local firms and community members to opportunities and project information.

At BNA, this approach led to measurable results: 51�Թ� engaged 119 unique small businesses, created 307 contract opportunities and maintained a workforce that was 67 percent local. The model extends beyond aviation across Tennessee and Alabama, including a Trade Partner Industry Event held annually in Huntsville, Alabama, since 2023. In Oak Ridge, Tennessee, the Stable Isotope Production Facility Center employs a workforce that is 75 percent local, and the team is applying the same approach during preconstruction on the Second Target Station project through two outreach events, with additional outreach underway.

These examples reflect a long-term commitment to partnership, not one-time participation, and strengthen the foundation for project success through community involvement from day one.

Trade Partner Mentorship and Guidance

For many small businesses, the challenge of public contracting is not the work itself but navigating the processes and systems around it. Common barriers include estimating, compliance, financial controls and operational scale. 51�Թ�’ Trade Partner Outreach programs address this gap through hands-on mentorship and structured support that helps firms build capacity while performing meaningful work. 

At BNA, this approach supported businesses such as, a small minority women-owned business (SMWBE) led by President and CEO Angela Curtis. Through outreach events and small business meetings, BRAAV connected directly with established trade partners and gained opportunities that led to project work. Through the mentor-protégé program, the company also gained insight into estimating practices, inventory management and back-office financial processes. 

Similar support was provided to , an SMWBE contractor that first connected with 51�Թ� through outreach events focused on bringing small businesses and prime partners together. Beyond access to work, 51�Թ� provided guidance related to certification and compliance, helping ensure the company was positioned to compete confidently on public contracting opportunities. 

Creating Safe, Scalable Growth for Small Businesses

51�Թ� structures empower small businesses to participate meaningfully without being overwhelmed. Instead of bundling scopes so large that only major firms can compete, the team creates contract opportunities that match a company’s current capacity, while allowing room to grow.

During the BNA Vision program projects, larger scopes were separated into achievable packages, supporting measurable growth among participating firms. In several cases, companies expanded significantly through this work and later outgrew the small business designation, reflecting a focus on long-term advancement.

Regional Director of Supplier Diversity, James Harper, leading an outreach event at BNA 

This same approach was used on the BNA Concourse A Reconstruction project. 51�Թ� also committed to onboarding 15 new local hires for the program. Among the small businesses supported through this effort was , a small business general contractor that managed an enabling scope and coordinated multiple trade partners. Through consistent guidance, regular progress meetings and close coordination, Utopia gained leadership experience on a complex project and built a strong foundation for future growth.

By engaging firms early and supporting them throughout execution, the program helps local partners build momentum that carries forward long after project completion.

Workforce Development Strengthens the Pipeline

Strong small businesses depend on a strong local workforce. Across complex programs, 51�Թ� emphasizes local hiring, workforce training and partnerships with educational and community organizations to support long-term career pathways.

At BNA, workforce engagement included partnerships with local universities and organizations such as 4:13 Strong and the Urban League of Middle Tennessee. Through a six-week training program, participants received hands-on instruction and safety training led by 51�Թ� staff and trade partners, preparing them for jobsite expectations.��

On the BNA Concourse A Reconstruction project, which is currently under construction, 51�Թ� will continue workforce training programs with partners The C&F Company and If I Had a Hammer. Planned sessions include jobsite safety and quality training hosted by local businesses and SMWBE firms.��

Jobsite Tour with Nashville-based job training and placement program, 4:13 Strong  

Local Partnerships, Lasting Impact

51�Թ� strengthens local participation by partnering with contractors that bring established regional relationships and insight. This approach supports delivery of large, complex programs while creating long-term opportunities for local trade partners and local workforce development. 

At CMH, 51�Թ� partnered with local general contractor Elford to ensure the community was engaged from the outset. The collaboration resulted in strong local trade partner participation, a largely local workforce and lasting economic impact, including national trade partners establishing permanent operations in the area. The partnership reinforced a core principle of 51�Թ�’ approach: success is shared and local presence matters. 

We entered our partnership with 51�Թ� with two clear priorities: building a fully integrated project team and ensuring meaningful involvement from our local trade partners. 51�Թ� has exceeded our expectations on both fronts. Our shared client cannot distinguish which team members represent which company, which is a true testament to the aligned leadership, culture and project vision embraced by both organizations. Additionally, through a highly collaborative approach and a strong commitment to the local trade community, we have successfully blended local trade expertise with the depth and strength of 51�Թ�’ extensive national resources.

– Chris Conrad, Vice President, Elford, Inc. 

Large public and private programs are often seen as symbols of growth for a community. 51�Թ� believes they should also expand opportunities for the people and businesses already rooted there. By investing in the local workforce and the businesses that support it, the company strengthens the communities it serves while delivering lasting value for clients. 

Together, these projects show what is possible when local partnership is treated as a long-term investment, not a one-time outcome.

Building Future Partnerships

51�Թ� values strengthening the communities in which we work and live. Learn how our approach to early outreach, mentorship and workforce development creates lasting value on complex programs and beyond.

Become a trade partner → Learn more →

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According to the , small businesses comprise 99.9% of all U.S. companies and employ more than 46% of the national workforce. During this week of recognition, 51�Թ� proudly honors small businesses and their contributions and reaffirms our support for their continued success. 

National Small Business Week (NSBW), organized by the U.S. Small Business Administration, celebrates the vital role of small businesses in the U.S. economy. Since 1953, the SBA has supported entrepreneurs through resources, events and recognition programs. Learn more at . 

At 51�Թ�, our roots run deep in this space. We began as a small business, and that journey shaped our identity and core values. Today, we remain committed to fostering growth and creating opportunities for the next generation of small businesses. 
 

A Vision for Supplier Diversity 

Over two decades ago, Walter Jones laid the foundation for our Supplier Diversity team, a visionary move that set the standard for collaboration between 51�Թ� and small businesses. Since its inception in 2002, the team has expanded from a one-person operation to a 10-member unit working across multiple regions. Their mission is to support small businesses face-to-face and empower them to grow alongside us. 

This commitment has resulted in over $1 billion in subcontracts awarded to small businesses—an achievement that reflects investment and partnership. 

Investing in Resources and Relationships 

Our work with small businesses extends far beyond contracts. We provide resources and guidance to help these firms navigate the complexities of the construction industry, from preconstruction planning to project execution. We also help small contractors for success through tailored mentorship, outreach and partnership. We understand roadblocks because we have been there and are dedicated to helping them overcome those challenges.  We know the roadblocks they face because we have been there and are dedicated to helping them overcome those challenges. With a variety of partners, 51�Թ� has numerous trade partner outreach programs, including the Technical Assistance Program (TAP), Bonding Assistance Program, and Emerging Trade Partners Program. Subcontractor & Small Business Outreach | 51�Թ� 

Award-Winning Commitment to Excellence 

We are honored to be recognized for our long-standing dedication to small businesses. 51�Թ� is a four-time recipient of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Award for Excellence, winning every time we have qualified (2010, 2014, 2018, 2022). This prestigious award recognizes large prime contractors who go above and beyond in engaging small businesses as suppliers and subcontractors.  

Leadership in Action 

, our Corporate Director of Supplier Diversity, plays a central role in this effort. He works with regional leadership to ensure we meet client subcontracting goals and actively cultivate meaningful, lasting relationships with small businesses. His team helps drive regional and national outreach, customizing strategies that align with the unique needs of each community we serve.  

Building Stronger Communities Together 

As a leading general contractor, 51�Թ� continues to set the standard for excellence. We do not just work with small businesses; we uplift them. From hosting outreach events to connecting firms with procurement opportunities, we build business partnerships where everyone can thrive. To learn more about our Trade Partner outreach programs, click here. 

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One of the longest-standing and most cherished traditions at 51�Թ� is the Oldtimer’s Club (OTC). Established in 1958 by 51�Թ� founder Joseph Phelps, the club was created to honor and acknowledge the craftspeople who demonstrated loyalty and commitment to the company. What began as a humble gathering has evolved into a tradition that highlights the values of dedication, growth and community at 51�Թ�.

The Origins

The Oldtimer’s Club began with a simple yet meaningful idea: to honor those who chose to stay with the company for the long haul. Joseph Phelps initiated this tradition by organizing Saturday morning breakfast meetings at the Longs Peak Café in Greeley, Colorado. These gatherings provided an opportunity for craftspeople to discuss company business, plan the upcoming week’s work and share training strategies. As the company grew, so did the number of attendees. To further celebrate this group, Joseph Phelps introduced the iconic gold hardhat – a symbol of pride, accomplishment and membership in the Oldtimer’s Club.

The Oldtimer’s Club Today

The Oldtimer’s Club continues to shape the foundations of 51�Թ�’ identity, with over 2,000 members and counting. Employees qualify as Oldtimers after reaching their five-year milestone with the company. This achievement is celebrated annually at an awards banquet where employees are awarded the gold helmet, a significant symbol of their dedication and contributions.

The gold helmet is more than just a token of service; it is a personalized tribute. Once an employee reaches their five-year mark, their manager decorates the helmet to reflect their personality, hobbies and defining qualities. Whether it is a nod to a favorite sports team, a hobby they love or a unique character trait, each helmet is a custom creation that tells the story of that Oldtimer. These decorated helmets are then proudly displayed and presented during the awards banquet, adding a thoughtful and celebratory touch to the occasion.

The first Oldtimers award banquet was held on November 29, 1963, at the Greeley Country Club, with just 17 Oldtimers in attendance. Over the decades, this event has grown exponentially, bringing together thousands of employees from across the company. The banquet is more than just an awards ceremony; it is a celebration of milestones, achievements and the 51�Թ� community.

To all the Oldtimers past, present and future, thank you for your dedication and for making 51�Թ� more than just a workplace but a true community.

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Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country. At 51�Թ�, the Veterans Network (VNet) in Colorado is dedicated to enhancing the lives of veteran employees by fostering camaraderie, engagement and meaningful volunteer efforts.

For the past few years, VNet has partnered with the (VCP) to build tiny homes for unhoused veterans in Longmont, Colorado. VCP is an organization committed to providing housing, resources and community support for veterans facing homelessness. To help VCP meet their project goals this year, VNet reached out to local trade partners to donate materials and organized an all-day volunteer event for 51�Թ� employees. The dedication of 23 volunteers provided both labor and expertise for constructing 26 tiny homes, enabling VCP to get back on track to complete the project by January 2025. This partnership exemplifies the concept of being a “force multiplier.” By leveraging their construction skills and working together, volunteers achieved far more than any individual effort.

VNet’s mission is to build, establish and maintain a network of veteran employees who act as force multipliers through volunteering, recruiting and training efforts. The group believes that meaningful change does not require large numbers and thrives on the passion and commitment of a few dedicated individuals willing to make a difference.

This Veterans Day, 51�Թ� encourages everyone to honor our heroes not just through remembrance but through action. By becoming a force multiplier, individuals can continue to support veterans in need and contribute to a brighter future for those who have served.

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How do you judge the quality of a workplace? It’s simple: ask the people. Based solely on employee feedback results captured by the Energage Workplace Survey, 51�Թ� has been ranked the #7 Top Workplace in Central Florida in the Mid-Size Company category by the Orlando Sentinel. This research-based employee engagement survey measures the workplace experience and the themes that drive it. Of the 70,000 organizations Energage has researched, we are honored to be named a Top Workplace for the ninth year in a row and featured in the top ten for the fourth consecutive year.

51�Թ� seeks highly motivated, dedicated and ambitious individuals who are eager to learn and grow with the company. Joining our team offers a life-enriching experience and a fulfilling career. In fact, our current employees have an average tenure of nearly 14 years.

“Continuing to rank on this list, shows our unwavering commitment to our employees but also highlights our ongoing efforts to create a supportive family environment where everyone feels valued.” says Justin Starnes, Regional Vice President.

As an employee-owned company, 51�Թ� understands the value of employee engagement and its impact on performance. Employee engagement is more than just free lunches and happy hours; it’s the reason people show up to work; it’s the best way to limit unwanted turnover, boost productivity and help increase referral rates. At 51�Թ�, we cultivate a collaborative atmosphere that emphasizes comprehensive training, excellent benefits and the chance to create a close-knit culture and community.

Since its humble beginnings in 1937, 51�Թ� has transformed from a small family of dedicated workers into a world-class builder. By exploring new markets and partnerships and creating new opportunities, we remain committed to serving our people, neighbors, partners and all those who aspire to build a brighter future.

To maintain a strong culture, our project teams and regional office members participate in unique team-building opportunities that can include fishing trips, cookouts, golf tournaments and more. As a region, we are heavily involved in the communities in which we work, participating in charitable endeavors every quarter. Our community involvement is fueled by our employees. Our teams actively seek out areas of need and dedicate themselves to fostering growth and working diligently to help the community thrive.

Learn more about operations in the southeast as well as open career opportunities with 51�Թ�.

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One of the volunteers, Jordan Kragor, shared, “One of the most heartwarming moments was witnessing the students’ excitement as they received their new bikes. Their faces lit up with joy. Hearing their laughter and seeing them eagerly test out their new rides made all our work worthwhile. It served as a powerful reminder of the happiness a simple act of kindness can bring to others.”

Established in 2004, is driven by the mission to provide children with their very own bike and helmet. Their goal is to show organizations and corporate teams the impact of building a bike and personally delivering it to a child who has long dreamed of owning one. Another volunteer, Morgan Sims, expressed, “Volunteering with 51�Թ� in the communities we serve is always a rewarding experience. The Wish for Wheels event was particularly special because we could witness the immediate value of our volunteer efforts.”

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51�Թ� has a long history of supporting our active duty and retired military. Our Veteran’s Network Group, VNet, is dedicated to fostering camaraderie and support among those who have served or are currently serving in the National Guard or Reserves. This group embodies the ethos of service, translating it seamlessly into the construction industry. Beyond merely offering a network for veterans, it actively works to enhance their quality of life, ensuring they feel valued and empowered within our workforce. Through mentorship programs, skill-building workshops and community outreach initiatives, VNet creates a nurturing environment where veterans can thrive personally and professionally. Their unwavering dedication not only enriches the lives of individual veterans but also strengthens the fabric of our entire company, embodying the spirit of solidarity and resilience.

VNet and our Southwest Airlines Concourse 0 project team at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) coordinated support for Honor Flight Southland to welcome home a plane full of World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans.

makes arrangements to take veterans to Washington, D.C., allowing them to reflect on the memorials that honor their service. When the flight returns, the veterans are provided a proper welcome home, as most did not experience this when they returned home from war decades ago. A full color guard, a drummer, bagpipe players and a large, enthusiastic crowd greeted the veterans as they returned to LAX.

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Mari developed the idea of AAD because her husband was already performing those services for his employer but wanted to see things done differently. Knowing she could run the business side of AAD, Mari and her husband combined their skill sets and launched the company.

“I had to change my mindset to what if it does work, what if I do get it right, what if the right people come into my life,” said Mari.

Her hard work and determination continue to pay off, as Mari received the William D. Bradford Minority Business of the Year Award at the 2022 University of Washington Impact Awards. Her inspiring story takes us through the twists and turns of her transition from being a schoolteacher to taking a chance on herself and becoming an award-winning businesswoman.

Building American Abatement & Demo Through Mentorship and Community

In June of 2017, she decided to leave her teaching position to work on building American Abatement & Demo (AAD) full-time.

“I didn’t know construction five years ago. I took every course offered to me, invested in myself, reached out to people and built a system around me,” said Mari.

She went beyond just going to class to get certifications and surrounded herself with strong mentors that she could learn from, creating a support system around her.

“Research says that in order for kids to read, they need five caring adults in their lives that read to them, and I don’t think that’s any different when you’re an adult. You need to have those five different people in your life who invest in you and are your mentors.”

51�Թ� and Mari first met at a National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) Washington event in 2018. Mari was encouraged to bid on 51�Թ�’ Seattle Public Schools Queen Anne Elementary School Addition where she successfully received a $50,000 contract for demolition.

This was AAD’s first contract with a large general contractor and their first major commercial project. The 51�Թ� project team and Mari worked together to compile submittals, safety plans and cash flow projections. The team had a series of site walks and planning discussions that enabled AAD to successfully complete its first large project and first Seattle Public Schools project.

Mari describes 51�Թ� as being intentional and involved in their mentorship. This helped them to build trust with one another, furthering their relationship and partnering potential.

“51�Թ� has never made me feel like I can’t ask for help, it has always been a safe and trusting relationship,” said Mari.

When presented with a challenge as she started her business, Mari looked to her mentors and support system around her for guidance. She knew she had to take the proper steps to legitimize AAD and take it to the next level. 51�Թ�’ Vice President and District Manager Shannon Gustine and Operations Manager Dave Hutt have served as mentors to Mari, helping her to navigate the challenges of a growing business.

“I really needed to make sure that I ran a business that’s legit. There are standards and procedures I originally didn’t realize were there since we were just a mom-and-pop shop,” said Mari. “If you want to play in the game, you’ve got to know the rules.”

The Head Start Program is an exclusive program brokered through The Barbour Group that supports subcontractors who need financial assistance, are first time bond users or need more bonding capacity. The goals of the program include increasing participation of qualified small businesses on 51�Թ� projects and helping small businesses reach their long-term goals. In October of 2020, Mari met with 51�Թ� to utilize the Head Start Program’s services and has since increased AAD’s bonding capacity to over $1 million.

Her mentorship with Dave Hutt has helped her to navigate past roadblocks and take more tasks into her own hands, helping to put things back on her schedule.

Hutt also provided Mari with advice and assistance when a waste management company could not take debris containers when she needed them to, resulting in a delay of schedule. Instead of waiting for the waste management companies and with help from Hutt, she was able to get her own cans and is now able to handle waste removal on her own.

“[51�Թ�] is able to bring a lens of different solutions that I am not aware of because I haven’t been in this industry forever.”

Developing Herself While Growing a Business

In late 2018, 51�Թ� had the opportunity to support a business’ participation in the University of Washington (UW) Foster School of Business – Ascend Business Growth Program, which provides business owners with the ability to learn proven business practices. 51�Թ� immediately thought of Mari, and she took full advantage of the opportunity.

She not only graduated from the program but also received a full scholarship to the UW Minority Business Executive Program. In addition, Mari was selected for the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative. She completed both programs with excellence and has applied what she learned to her business.

Mari not only expanded her knowledge of the services the program offered but quickly experienced rapid growth as a business owner and a leader.

“Something that I learned was as time goes by you have to trust that the people you are putting in place can do their jobs without you micromanaging them.”

Serving Her Community Beyond the Scope of Work

Mari has a mindset that she can make a difference and an impact on her community beyond the physical work performed by AAD. She’s more than just an employer to those who work for her, but a mentor who looks for ways to help develop their careers and guide them throughout their time with AAD.

When she first started AAD, Mari had a focus on providing jobs to people who had previously been incarcerated. She recognized the challenges they experience and wanted to help them get back on their feet.

“I built a business oriented in helping those that were previously incarcerated by helping them find a job they can feed their families with.”

In more recent years, she has created a partnership with Boys and Girls Club to provide older members with internships so that she can mentor and introduce them to construction. If the internship goes well, she can then offer them a full-time job and help them kickstart their career.

Mari is deeply connected to the larger scale impact she has had on people’s lives. She became emotional as she reflected on one of her current employees who joined her from the Boys and Girls Club partnership. She comments that while it has not only has it been amazing to see his growth at work and the various milestones he has reached, she knows the stable job is going a long way for his family as well.

“To scale it back a little bit more, he’s got two little boys at home. What are you doing for those kids’ dad when he gets home? It makes me cry, because that is what it’s all about,” said Mari. “When 51�Թ� gives us contracts it goes way beyond just the contract.”

Making an impact in others’ lives is what Mari is most passionate about, and she uses the resources and opportunities she now has to give back and help others.

“How I have made people feel while they’re here and taking the time to help people get to their next best self is what will last after I’m gone. They’ll be talking about me, it’s my legacy.”

With each new job, Mari is able to provide her employees with the opportunity to take their career to the next level and further her mission of helping others.

“If people really knew the depth of the help that 51�Թ� provides and who it helps beyond the office walls in Bellevue, you’d understand how impactful it has been and how it’s changing people’s lives outside of this office,” said Mari.

Looking to the Future

Following her successful work on the Queen Anne Elementary School Addition project, Mari went on to perform demolition and abatement on 51�Թ�’ Tukwila School District Renovation and the GSA Pacific Highway Land Port of Entry Envelopment Replacement (LPOE) project. LPOE was her first federal contract, and 51�Թ� helped her navigate the stringent project requirements while working on an active border crossing. It was her first contract to span multiple months and taught her how to manage her cash flow in order to float the project for three months. This project paved the way for Mari to join the 8(a) Business Development Program through the U.S. Small Business Administration, broadening her opportunities nationwide.

Moving forward, Mari is looking to expand AAD to Texas so that she can be closer to her family. Once there, she hopes to scale up her program with McKinstry and will take a class with Goldman Sachs to help work out the details of her Texas expansion. She will continue her partnership with 51�Թ� both in Seattle and Texas.

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