Introducing the Salt Lake Chapter Board of Officers and Directors for 2024-2025

President - Tonya Timothy

Project Manager

Pentalon Construction

NAWIC Member since 2014

What led you to join NAWIC?

Eleven years ago, I went into Big-D’s office to see if I could talk to their pre-construction services, as I was trying to get the geotechnical firm that I worked for at the time in on the ground floor. I met Jana Cochell, she took me around the office introduced me to a bunch of people. She introduced me to NAWIC and invited me to an event as Big- D’s guest. At the event I was accepted with open arms and was very impressed with the organization.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

The biggest challenge I see in NAWIC and in the industry in general is the retention of people. What I view as the second challenge correlates to the 1st challenge, inclusion, and participation. I would love to see more women in the organization embrace all the opportunities we can offer each other, by increasing attendance to meetings, being on a committee, participating in learning opportunities, networking, mentoring, friendship, and outreach. I wish women would see all the benefits and fun they will experience as well as see their value and ideas being reciprocated to the other women in our group.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or

introduce?

I am honored to serve as the next President. I am excited to be part of the new mentoring program

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

It is a never-ending learning process, no one day is alike. Nothing better than having something tangible that you are proud of being a part of. It is so fun to experience that sense of pride every time you drive by one of your projects.

What are your hobbies?

I love to work; it is kind of crazy, but it is something I truly enjoy and have always been a “workaholic”. I love to travel and try new adventures. I enjoy making digital photo albums, going to the movies, going out to dinner-especially trying new cuisines. I also love spending quiet nights at home wrapped in my Minky watching a good movie or reading a great book.

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

Personally-My family which includes our 3 amazing children, who are now adults. I am so proud of each of them and think it is really cool they and my son-in-law all work in some type of skilled trade. Professionally-my greatest achievement was going back to school in my 40’s and becoming a Project Manager.

What is your favorite quote?

“Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.” John Maxwell

Vice President - Becky Robinson

HR Manager

Big-D Construction

NAWIC Member since 2019

What led you to join NAWIC?

I had been attending NAWIC meetings as a guest for a couple of years, originally invited by Jana Cochell, a co-worker and long-time, now retired, member. My pivotal moment came when I attended the Pacific Southwest Spring Forum in Las Vegas in 2019. There, I witnessed the extensive reach of NAWIC and its profound impact on women in construction. The forum brought together women from various places, all sharing similar experiences. This event highlighted the immense value of NAWIC in supporting women in the industry and provided a platform for learning from each other’s experiences. It was then that I realized the significance of being part of such an empowering organization and signed up when I returned.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

There are several significant challenges. One of the primary issues is membership participation. Our chapter members are the backbone of the organization, and when they don’t actively participate, our collective strength diminishes. We rely on their unique experiences and feedback to drive meaningful discussions and initiatives. Our gatherings are not just social events; they are crucial for networking, professional development, and advancing our shared goals. To

maintain and grow our impact, we need active involvement from all members to harness the full potential of our collective expertise and support.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

Looking forward to supporting our new President, Tonya Timothy and supporting her initiatives for our chapter, like the mentorship program.

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

I love the people. Being surrounded by builders who are making a lasting impact on our communities is incredibly rewarding. In my HR role with Big-D Construction, who is a general contractor, I have the privilege of interacting with a diverse range of positions. I see firsthand how each role is intertwined, contributing to accomplishing goals and constructing remarkable projects. This collaborative environment, where every individual's expertise is valued and essential, makes working in the construction industry both fulfilling and inspiring. I see NAWIC in the same eyes.

What are your hobbies?

Travel is definitely one of my hobbies. I love exploring new places and immersing myself in different cultures. I also enjoy getting my hands in dirt and gardening. I plant both vegetables and flowers.

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

Recently, I planned and executed international solo trips to Paris, Amsterdam, and Italy. These journeys were incredibly empowering and gave me a significant boost in confidence and I’m proud of myself for doing them on my own. I believe my experiences have inspired other women who are looking for that push to embark on their own solo adventures and do something meaningful for themselves.

What is your favorite quote?

“Be the change you wish to see in the world”

Treasurer - Patty Waldhouse

Sr. Project Coordinator

CCI Mechanical

NAWIC Member since 2015

What led you to join NAWIC?

When I first started at CCI, I remember hearing Kathy and Karen talk about the wonderful women in the chapter, the conferences they attended, I wanted to be part of something that would help me grow in the industry and give me a group of women to have in my network/circle.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

A challenge I would like to get some insight on is member retention – we seem to have members signing up, but not attending meetings or participating on committees. We need to find out what the next generation is looking for with their NAWIC membership and get them more involved.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

I’m really excited for the chapter mentorship program to start and really get going. I think this will be a positive push our chapter needs to get members engaged again and have our numbers for the monthly meeting increase.

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

It is exciting for me to drive thru the valley and see projects that CCI has worked on or is working on. I like to brag to my family about the things or company does and the buildings we have been part of. to see that our company/industry is responsible for helping make someone’s life better in some small way – that is what is motivating to me.

What are your hobbies?

Hobbies – who has time for hobbies? Lol

My mind, heart and soul seem to enjoy more hobbies than my body can anymore. But I’ve always enjoyed playing sports – softball, football, bowling and running. I also love to curl up with a good book and have a new adventure. My daughter and I like to do sewing and wood crafts too.

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

I am very proud of my college degree – I waited until I was working (2) jobs and a single mother, but I did it and am very glad I did!

I also love to brag about where I am professionally – I’ve worked at CCI for (18) years now and have become a valuable tool for others to rely on and come to for assistance.

What is your favorite quote?

She Believed She Could, so She Did!

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams – Eleanor Roosevelt

You MUST DO the one thing you THINK you cannot do! – Eleanor Roosevelt

Secretary - Jennifer Montague

Payroll Administrator

Comfort Systems USA Intermountain

NAWIC Member since 2023

What led you to join NAWIC?

I wanted to find more opportunities to network with people in the industry, and my dad had some ladies at work that are a part of NAWIC so he encouraged me to connect with them. Once I researched more about it and went to an event I was hooked.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

The biggest challenges I see NAWIC facing the gender disparity and stereotyping within the industry. Despite

progress the construction industry remains male-dominated, and it is hard to get women to want to join the trades due to the gender bias and stereotypes they may face. I also think access to training and mentorship is another challenge, there is often limited access to training programs and mentorship opportunities tailored for women in construction, which can hinder their career growth and development.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

I think I would love to be more involved with the Block Kids Building Program, I got a taste of it this past year and I think it is a wonderful program. Also safety & health initiatives. We need more safety and health initiatives that are tailored to women for them to feel safe and comfortable when doing their jobs, I would love to see more than just changing the color of a hard hat or vest to pink for it to be a woman’s, instead tailoring them to a woman’s body and understanding that there are some differences.

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

It’s always the same and yet always different. Construction work often involves a wide range of activities and projects, ensuring that no two days are exactly the same. This variety can make the job more interesting and engaging. And it is wonderful to look at a building and know that you had a part in constructing it and making it was it is today.

What are your hobbies?

I like to create Cosplays, play DnD, & do Karate

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

I would say I have two; getting my SHRM CP on a professional level, and on a personal level achieving my last belt promotion in Karate. Both took me a long time to accomplish but the effort was worth the reward.

What is your favorite quote?

“The most dangerous phrase in the English language is: We’ve always done it this way. It raises the question: Are we doing this because we always have, or because it is the right thing to do?” – Grace Hooper US Navy Rear Admiral

Immediate Past President - Kaitlyn Eaton

Sr. Implementation Specialist

Big-D Construction

NAWIC Member since 2018

What led you to join NAWIC?

When I first started at Big-D, I was invited by Becky to go to a meeting. The company I worked at before was a manufacturing company with only six other women, so I loved the community and seeing so many other women doing incredible things.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

Not adapting to support the needs and struggles of a new generation of women in construction. Not being inclusive enough to women of color in the construction industry. Not being inclusive enough

towards tradeswomen. Ultimately there are so many ways we can learn from each other but if we're resistant to change then we'll end up becoming irrelevant.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

I'm excited to take more of a back seat and do what I can to support Tonya and her initiatives. I've had an incredible two years and now it's time for a fresh perspective and some new ideas!

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

I like the people, I like the feeling of pride when driving past our projects (even though I'm in a corporate support role and had nothing to do with actually putting the work in place). I like the ability to try so many different things. I like solving new challenges and always learning something new.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are constantly shifting! I like taking care of my houseplants, I recently started growing tomatoes on my balcony, I love spending time with my husband and our dog, playing video games, and traveling whenever I can!

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

This is probably an obvious one, but I'm incredibly proud of being elected as the Pacific Southwest Region Director for 2024-2026.

What is your favorite quote?

“I’m not going to limit myself just because people won’t accept the fact that I can do something else.” - Dolly Parton

Director - Jennifer Campbell

Senior Account Executive

Associated Business Technologies

NAWIC Member since 2021

What led you to join NAWIC?

Professional Growth

1. Networking Opportunities: NAWIC provides a platform to connect with other women in the construction industry, which can be invaluable for building professional relationships, finding mentors, and discovering new career opportunities.

2. Professional Development: NAWIC offers workshops, seminars, and training sessions that can help you develop new skills, stay updated on industry trends.

3. Access to Resources: Membership provides access to resources like industry research, educational materials, and best practices that enhances your knowledge and competence in the field.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

Membership Engagement and Growth

• Engagement: Keeping members engaged and active within the organization requires continuous effort. Offering relevant programs, networking opportunities, and benefits that meet the diverse needs of members is crucial.

• Growth: Attracting new members and expanding the organization’s reach is important for sustainability and impact. This includes reaching out to younger generations and those new to the industry.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

Mentorship Programs

• Structured Mentorship: Implementing a structured mentorship program that pairs experienced women in construction with newcomers or those looking to advance their careers. This can provide guidance, support, and professional development.

• Peer-to-Peer Mentoring: Facilitating peer-to-peer mentoring groups where members can share experiences, challenges, and solutions in a collaborative environment.

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

Impact on the Community

• Community Development: Contributing to projects that improve infrastructure, provide housing, or create public spaces can have a positive impact on the community, giving you a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

• Legacy: Being part of constructing buildings and structures that will be used and appreciated for generations can provide a lasting legacy and a sense of pride in your work.

What are your hobbies?

Volunteering: Giving back to the community through volunteering.

Cooking and Baking: Experimenting with new recipes and cooking for friends and family.

Traveling: Exploring new places and cultures in Utah and surrounding states, creating memorable experiences.

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

Raising a Family: Successfully raising children and seeing them grow into happy, healthy adults.

What is your favorite quote?

All-time favorite quote: If It Is To Be It Is Up To Me!

Director - Kathy Bonnett

Office Manager

CCI Mechanical

NAWIC Member since 1994

What led you to join NAWIC?

Professional & personal development, and the sisterhood.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

Block Kids & PD&E

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

I like being a part of watching something being created. Although I don’t work out in the field it is exciting to drive around the valley and point out, “Hey my company helped build that building”.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy crafting, camping, watching sporting events, spending time with my grandkids, and running.

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

Passing the CIS Exam and working for the same company for 31+ years.

What is your favorite quote?

Look up, get up and don’t ever give up.

Director - Tiffany Dazley

Senior VDC Coordinator

Big-D Construction

NAWIC Member since 2022

What led you to join NAWIC?

Kaitlyn always talked about how much she loved the organization. She invited me to a few meetings that I couldn’t make it to. However, I finally was able to make it to the Christmas party in Dec of 2021 and I loved it. It was fun getting to know other women of different walks of life. I guess networking was the initial reason I joined. I wanted to get to know other women in the industry as well as hopefully learn from them.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

Retaining members and getting members to participate in the meetings, events, and activities.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

It has been so fun to be part of the WIC week committee and the gala committee. I’m now working with Tonya to roll out our mentorship program and I’m excited to do this. I believe that consistent learning is the basis for which any part of your life improves. I am really looking forward to just being more involved with and learning even more about the organization.

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

I like that you can see your results. The construction industry is not easy to work in, but the reward of seeing your project come to completion makes it worth the struggles.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy traveling, watching movies, and building Lego (Specifically amusement park rides).

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

My bachelor’s degree

What is your favorite quote?

Life is tough my darling, but so are you!

Director - Carlyn Chester

Sr. Safety Manager

Okland Construction

NAWIC Member since 2020

What led you to join NAWIC?

The first time I heard about NAWIC was from Susan Tolson-Stoddard. She told me about this organization and thought that I would be a good fit because I was always advocating for people and their safety. She thought I would be a good advocate for women.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing NAWIC?

I think our biggest challenge is not being able to keep up with our growth. We're growing so much and we need to put things in place to support it. We have a good foundation, we just need to build on it. We have to make sure we're providing the quality support that NAWIC was founded on.

Are there any specific projects or initiatives you are excited to work on or introduce?

I'm excited to be the board liaison for the Industry Partner's committee. I love having the opportunity to work with different agencies and organizations within the State of Utah that are also helping to champion women, not only within construction but statewide.

What do you like about working in the construction industry?

That there is never a dull moment. Every

day faces you with a new challenge. It's definitely not an industry to be in if you want to be bored. There's so many different avenues and career paths you can take. It should be appealing to so many different people, they just haven't had the exposure or been introduced.

What are your hobbies?

I love to golf, ski, gardening, working in my yard, love to dance and give me a microphone and I'll sing karaoke anywhere.

What achievement are you most proud of? Either professional or personal.

Personally would be being Hanna Hassan's mom for 24 amazing years. She is a special girl and I'm so glad to be her mom.

Professionally, I'm really proud of the fact that I'm invested in so many things, peoples, and ways to promote women. I'm also on the board for Utah Women in Trades, and to be able to mentor and sponsor a young woman who was a laborer to carpenter and then crane operator is an amazing feeling. Knowing that you can impact people in so many ways just by getting involved and being there. Putting myself out there to help and be an advocate for women no matter who they are or what role. I've started to recognize the kind of impact you can have.

What is your favorite quote?

Be the kind of woman that when your feet hit the floor each morning, the devil says 'Oh crap, she's up!