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NAWIC Names Tower Crane Operator, Sammy Cossairt, 2025 Tradeswoman of the Year
“We want her!” Cossairt exemplifies excellence in the trades and lifts others along the way
Fort Worth, Texas — August 14, 2025 — The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) announced Sammy Cossairt, a tower crane operator for Maxim Crane Works in Nashville, TN, as the winner of the 2025 Tradeswoman of the Year Award. This national award honors exceptional skill in the construction trades, leadership among peers and a commitment to advancing women in the industry.
With nearly a decade of experience, Cossairt operates at extreme heights with unmatched skill – often as the only woman on site. Her technical expertise, work ethic, and composure under pressure have earned her the trust of contractors, coworkers, and industry leaders alike.
NAWIC President Kelly Aust said, “Sammy’s excellence as a crane operator is matched by her leadership and advocacy for other women in the trades. She’s building Nashville’s skyline while also lifting up the next generation – proof that ‘Together We Rise’ is more than a theme, it’s her way of life. Sammy’s impact reaches far beyond her own trade, helping to shape the future of NAWIC and the construction industry as a whole.”
More than expressing how honored she is to win, Cossairt wants to thank – and give a shout out to – her employer, coworkers, all the other tradeswomen in the industry, and to NAWIC.
“I think of how thankful I am for Maxim Crane and their team that has never held me back from anything. A lot of women in trades don’t get that lucky,” said Cossairt. “I wouldn’t have gotten to build high rises if they didn’t believe in me and let me climb the crane on day one. I wouldn’t have gotten these jobs if the contractors were not bold enough to state ‘we want her’ as our tower crane operator.“
Cossairt also praised NAWIC. “I think of NAWIC and how they just rally these gritty, tough, ‘boots on the ground’ women without even receiving a paycheck for it. It’s all passion with these NAWIC women.”
Beyond the job site, Cossairt is a visible and vocal advocate for women in construction. She serves on national industry committees, participates in public panels, and mentors the next generation through her story and example. Her presence is reshaping what leadership and strength look like in one of the most male-dominated trades. She is also a singer-songwriter and moved from Idaho to Nashville to pursue that passion. Her song, “Tradeswoman,” written for all women in the trades, is set to release in October.
The NAWIC Tradeswoman of the Year Award recognizes a tradeswoman who excels in her craft, demonstrates leadership, and advocates for women in the industry. The winner shows excellence in her trade, leadership, and advocacy for other tradeswomen. The award also considers impact on the industry and how the winner supports and mentors other women in the field. The award is open to women employed in the U.S. construction industry; NAWIC membership is not required to enter.
About NAWIC: The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) continues the vision of its founding members by advocating for the value and impact of women builders, professionals, and tradeswomen in all aspects of the construction industry. With over 120 chapters across the country, and more than 6,000 members, NAWIC offers opportunities for professional development, education, networking, and leadership training. To learn more, visit nawic.org.
