FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Payton Sears, Marketing and Communications Lead
paytons@nawic.org
NAWIC Assistant Director, Amber Kohut, named this year’s Wayne James Award recipient by DFWAE
Kohut is honored, and thankful to both her NAWIC team and DFWAE
June 26, 2025, – Fort Worth, Texas
National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Assistant Director, Amber Kohut, has been selected by Dallas/Fort Worth Association Executives (DFWAE) as the winner of this year’s Wayne James Award.
“Congratulations to Amber on receiving the Wayne James Award! Her leadership and the way she builds connection and community truly shines, and it’s wonderful to see that recognized,” NAWIC President, Kelly Aust, said.According to DFWAE, the award is given annually to the member who recruits the most new members to the organization. “It’s named after past president Wayne James, who consistently led with connection and care, just like you have this year,” President Shasta Foy, CAE, said in an email.
In addition to leading with connection, Amber “shows perseverance and commitment to excellence in all she does,” said NAWIC Interim Director, Velma Hart, MBA, FASAE, CAE.
Kohut credits her team – staff, board, and Hart – for their support this year which helped her be in a position to engage with DFWAE giving her the chance to “grow and give back,” Kohut said.
But, the award was a complete surprise. “I was truly just stunned when I found out,” she said. “I’m incredibly honored.”
Kohut, who has been with NAWIC for five years, attended the DFWAE conference this year along with her team. The experience was exciting for all of them, and reinforced Kohut’s view that, “the more you network, the more you learn. Keep sharing, supporting each other and showing up. That’s how we all rise.”
For more information about NAWIC or to speak with Ms Kohut directly please visit nawic.org or contact Payton Sears, paytons@nawic.org. For more information about DFWAE visit dfwae.org.
About NAWIC: The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) advocates for the value and impact of women builders, tradeswomen, and professionals in all aspects of the construction industry. With 120 chapters across the country, and more than 6,000 members, NAWIC offers its members opportunities for professional development, education, networking, and leadership training. To learn more, visit: nawic.org.
