FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Payton Sears, Marketing and Communications Manager
paytons@nawic.org

NAWIC Installs 2025-2026 National Board and Regional Directors

New board boasts a combined 100+ years of construction industry experience

August 25, 2025 – The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is proud to introduce its newly installed National Board and Regional Directors for the 2025-2026 term. With experience, drive, and a shared commitment to strengthening and amplifying the success of women in the construction industry these leaders are determined to expand NAWIC’s impact.

“It is a privilege to lead NAWIC and our community this year,” said Rita Brown, the new president of NAWIC.  “As we level up and build on our strengths, we will undeniably continue to reinforce our critical role in the construction industry.”

She added, “Women are, and have been, undeniable, vital components of the success of this industry. We must continue to drive that message hard, to an industry that grows and thrives with the talents and acumen that women bring without pause.”

Shawna Alvarado, Vice President, NAWIC, shared, “Serving on the NAWIC board has been an incredible journey thus far, filled with collaboration, leadership growth, and opportunities making lasting impacts in advancing women in the industry while strengthening our communities. Our future is bright as we work to inspire the next generations.”

The new National Board includes:

  • Rita Brown, Owner, BCC+, Birmingham, MI, and Transportation Commissioner, State of MI, will serve as President
  • Jodi Wiemerslage, Sales Lead, API Supply Lift, Rochester, MN, President-elect
  • Shawna Alvarado, CEO, O’Donnell Plastering Inc., Santa Clara, CA, Vice President
  • Charris Sonne-Phinney, CRIS., Commercial Construction Insurance Account Manager,
    Anchor Insurance & Surety, Inc., Portland, OR, Treasurer
  • Kelly Aust, Project Manager, Skanska, Portland, OR, Immediate Past President
  • Doreen Bartoldus, PE, CCM, Senior Director Client Services, Brown and Caldwell, New York City, NY, Parliamentarian.
  • Sheronda L. Carr, Chief Executive Officer, NAWIC, Fort Worth, TX.

NAWIC is also pleased to announce the newly elected Regional Directors:

  • Dotty Johnson, CIT, CIS, Executive Assistant, Bouten Construction Company, Spokane, WA Pacific Northwest Region
  • Tamara Crooks, J.D., CIT, Construction Manager, Byrne Construction Services, Fort Worth, TX, South Central Region
  • Adriana Perez, Marketing Manager, White Cap, West Palm Beach, FL, Southeast Region
  • Natalye Jackson, Virtual Design Construction Specialist, M.B. Kahn, Columbia, SC, South Atlantic Region

The following Regional Directors will continue their terms this year:

These dedicated leaders bring a diverse range of skills and experiences to their roles, and NAWIC looks forward to their contributions in advancing the organization’s goals and supporting its members.

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 more than 120 chapters nationwide, and over 6,000 members, NAWIC offers its members opportunities for professional development, education, networking, and leadership training. To learn more, visit nawic.org.