Mentors List
! IMPORTANT ! The following list of current Sisters in the Building Trades members, have graciously volunteered to be mentors to either women in the trades, or women who would like to enter into the trades. The list is organized by where the mentor resides, and what trade they are a member of. Although their information is listed here, they do NOT invite solicitation, spam, or any form of unauthorized communications. Please contact the Mentors with only questions about women in the trades. Thank you kindly for your understanding. Please note, emails are not setup as link, this prevents bots from spamming our Mentors. To email the Mentors, copy and paste the address in your email application and change (at) to @.
King County
Anita Belcher
SeattleCarpenters Local #131
Bio: Journeywoman
just4anita(at)comcast.net
Aspen Swartz
SeattleCarpenter, Local #131
Bio: I'm a finish carpenter with about 7 years experience. I started in high-end residential non-union remodel work and now do commercial union finish work. I think many women make great carpenters when they have a way to learn and I want to help show more women the ropes. I also sing about work and the right to organize in the Seattle Labor Chorus.
Phone: 206.459.4291
aspendel(at)gmail.com
Beth Britz
Vashon IslandIBEW Local #46, Inside Wireman
Bio: 9 years in the industry. I got into the trade, becoming the 5th member of my family as a wiremen with local 46 in my late 30's. I came from a more white collar sector. I love the job and the challenges that come with it. After spending most of my career with Prime Electric. last fall I took a position with SeaPort Maintenance, a division of the Port of Seattle The move was an opportunity for me to get training and exposure in a broader spectrum of our craft. I also now have a consistent commute and paid holidays....yipee!!
Phone: 206.713.2118
boardref(at)aol.com
Carolina Taylor
KenmoreIron Worker, Local #86
Bio: Journeywoman with 9 years experience in the trade. Bi-Lingual: Spanish/English
Phone: 425.482.0118
fulminata12(at)msn.com
Chris Littlejohn
SnoqualmieOperators Local #302
Bio: 2 years in the trade.
Phone: 425.766.1631
superflushchris2(at)yahoo.com
Danielle Anderson
KentPlumber Local #32
Bio: I am serving my second year as a commercial plumber apprentice. I am a mother of 2, very beautiful little girls. I hope that I will show my girls that women can be very strong, especially when banded together. I am a single parent, and I must say that life has never tested me as much as now. But by accomplishing all that I have, I have learned to be even stronger for myself and my girls. If anyone has a question regarding work, life, or just to chat, please feel free to email me. I would like to change how women are viewed in the industry and am interested in participating in community volunteer work.
Dandersonua32(at)yahoo.com
Deborah S. Colombi
RentonElectricians Local #46
Bio: My experience in construction began in the office of a large painting contractor. Many years later, I completed the electrical apprenticeship in Seattle, Local #46. I continue to work as an electrical foreman or journeyman electrician.
Phone: 425.228.6403
wirewomandeb(at)comcast.net
Debra Lemmon
Fall CityOperators Local #302
Bio: Prior to becoming an Operating Engineer, I was a 19 year old single mother working 3 minimum wage jobs and trying to: go to college, have a life and stay out of jail. I was a dependent on the state, my community and my family. In '02 (21 years old) I was working next to a 50 year old bartender and it scared the poop out of me, "that is not who i want to be when I grew up". I up-rooted my family and moved away from everything I knew to find a better way. I started working in the trades as a laborer in 03". I was surprised at the camaraderie and job training I received from day 1. I learned so much (and made so much $$$) I was no longer dependent upon anyone monetarily, i.e. I paid more in taxes in my first year in the trades than I had ever made in 3 consecutive years prior ! ! ! In '04 I was accepted into IUOE Local 302's Apprenticeship Program. Today I am a Journeyman Operator, Job Steward, Active Member in my Local, and working in King County. I got involved with SITBT for recruitment and retention of women in the trades. I see this organization doing great things! ! But any organization is only as strong or out spoken as its members, so I volunteered for the Mentorship. ( I have a lot to say, but can be a good listener too.)
Phone: 206.396.9582
lemmodl215m7(at)yahoo.com
Denise Salo
SeattleElectricians Local #46
Bio: Retired military, graduate degree, licensed electrician, working labor relations; new skills means more choices about where and how I work.
Phone: 206.255.4853
salod(at)soundtransit.org
Evelyn Shapiro-O'Connor
SeattleCarpenter Local #131
Bio: Journey Carpenter
evelynblanche01(at)yahoo.com
Guy Astley
Seattle ( Native Seattlite )Carpenters Local #131
Bio: I was doing Carpentry non-union 1970-1974. I started in the (now Martin Luther King Jr.) county Carpenters Apprenticeship in 1974 and joined Local 131. I graduated from the Apprenticeship in 1978. I have been a trustee of Local 131 and am currently a delegate to the regional council of carpenter. I was part of the Trade Mentor Network and helped Shai Kane organize the network in 1990. I have also been with the Women in Trades (now: Washington Women in Trades) since 1991 and a member of the board of directors of ANEW since 1992. I taught in the King County Carpenters Apprenticeship program from Oct. 1989 to Oct. 2007. I have fought for equality and fairness for all people ALL of my life. I know that emergencies and crisies happen at all times, call 24hr.
Phone: 206.524.2195 (Leave mssg if no answer)
guyastley(at)hotmail.com
Jesse Chute
RentonCarpenter Local #1797
Phone: 425.271.1778
jessechute(at)hotmail.com
Kandy Paulson
CarnationTeamsters Local #174
Bio: I began my career in construction in 1994 when I was a single parent with 3 daughters. I have been a Teamster since 1998, and shop steward for two employers. I am very active in Teamsters #174, currently working on the Election Committee.
Phone: 206.459.5727
paulsonk130(at)hotmail.com
Karen Echaniz
SeattleTeamsters Local #174
206.841.6665
kechaniz(at)msn.com
Kate Maloney
SeattleElectricians Local #46/PSEJATC
Bio: Wireman and PSEJATC Instructor.
Phone: 425.228.1777 ext. 315
Katie(at)psejatc.org
Linda Romanovich
SeattleCarpenter Local #131
Bio: A carpenter for 28 years, I am currently employed by King County in the maintenance Division as a Carpenter Foreman. I am very active in my union and serve both a Delegate to the Regional Council of Carpenters and as a Trustee for Local #131.
Phone: 206.721.6272
lindaro(at)comcast.net
Marge Newgent
TukwilaOperators Union Local #302
Bio:I started in the Ironworkers in 1986. I had an on the job injury resulting in back surgery. I was out of work for about a year. I than applied to the Operator's and started my apprenticeship in April of 1990. I worked for Kiewit running a forklift for 18 months and then went to work as an oiler for Mortenson at West Point Treatment plant. I journeyed out and went to work for Kuney and worked my way up from oiler to boomtruck to friction cranes and hydros. I started being a job steward in 2005 and became a Business agent in October 2007.I am an 18 year member and crane hand, I never got into dirt work because my back is fused and the machines are harder on your body than cranes. I am a proud mother and my family is important to me.
Phone: 206.852.0000
mnewgent(at)iuoe302.org
Melina Harris
KentCarpenters Local #1797
Bio: 16 years in the industry. Joined the local in 1998, owned a construction company for 4 years. Main contact for the Sisters in the Building Trades.
Phone: 253.850.1458
shyeshye(at)aol.com
Michelle Helmholz
CovingtonLaborers Local #440
Bio: Laborer, #440 Business Agent, Safety, Apprenticeships, Retrainage with 26 years in the trade.
Phone: 253.638.2587
m.helmholz(at)comcast.net
Sandra Lompe
Federal WayIBEW Local #46
Phone: 360.461.6213
acidpopcheeks(at)yahoo.com
Sheryl Toland
RentonOperating Engineers Local #612
Bio: Laborers Local 242 for 5 years and Operators Local #612 for 3 years.
Phone: 206.499.7701
Soph Davenport
SeattleSheet Metal, SMWIA Local #66
Bio: In the industry since 1996, interested in mentoring, public speaking and community volunteer work. I've done everything from pooky duct to weld 1/2" plate to balance industrial chemical labs. Sheet metal has been a great match for my interests and skills and I'm happy to share my experiences.
206.396.0957
sagesoph(at)speakeasy.net
Susan Little
Federal WayLocal #2396
Bio: Piledriver Welder, 15 years in the industry
Phone: 253.835.7622
Tammy Keen
Mercer IslandIBEW Local #191
Bio: I have been a member of the local #191 since 1995, when I started my apprenticeship. I served 3 years of it in Eastern Washington, and the remainder on the west side of the mountains. Prior to electrical work I was a welder - structural steel, then a few years in a metal-fab shop. I'm now classified as a wireman/welder, as I do both. I'm also a proud single mom of 4 wonderful children - 2 still at home.
Phone: 206.661.2586
tamara.keen(at)gmail.com
Tammy Nelson
SeattleLaborer Local #242
Bio: I am a Mother of 3 children. I have been working union commercial construction for 9 years. I started out working non -union jobs in 95, in 98 I joined Local 242. My life is no longer a financial struggle, being a union member has allowed me to provide plenty for my family. Working on Highrise buildings has given me a great sense of accomplishment in my own life. I have met many very wonderful people & continue to with each new project. I hope that more young women join the construction Trades.
Phone: 360.286.7873
Tawny Sayers
Maple ValleyLaborers Local #440
Bio: 14 years as a Skilled Construction Craft Laborer. The last 5 a an apprenticeship coordinator. ANEW graduate class #30.
Phone: 206.550.7116
tsayers(at)nwlett.org
Vikki Carson
South SeattleElectricians Local #46
Bio: I have been in commercial construction for 14 years.
Phone: 206.383.3028
Yolanda Lowery
SeattleCarpenter Local #131
Bio: I've been a carpenter for 16 years - since I was just a baby! I love it. I love my job. I'm a journey level carpenter working on the light link rail - currently employed by PCL. It’s a wage that lets me buy bigger and better toys! I have three daughters, two adults and one pre teen. And two granddaughters! Lots of girls in this family! I have a great group of friends that I like to hang with and on occasion you can find me at the softball fields. I joined the sisters to support the next generation, set an example for my daughters, and comraderie with other women in like situations.
Phone: 206.412.6796
yoyoma42(at)hotmail.com
Pierce County
Annalee Ogle
PuyallupCarpenter, Local #1797
Bio: I have been in construction since I was 18 years old. At that time I was in the Navy and was HT3, repairing and maintaining structural integrity of the ships. I am a 42 year old single mother of a teenage daughter. 2 1/2 years in the Laborers union, went to collage, got an associates degree in Building Technology. I joined the Carpenters Union 11 years ago. I mainly do concrete construction. I enjoy using my mind and body to build something I can be proud of. I am currently a foreman in charge of hardware and do some of the lay out on the Hood Canal Bridge where I have been working for the last 2 ½ years. I want to make a difference and show that women do have a place in this field, if they are willing to work hard and can stand the weather.
Phone: 253.896.5133
Christina Hall
FircrestMechanic/Operating Engineers Local #612
Bio:I have been with the Operators for 7years, but have been in the mechanic/maintenance field for 15 years. I started in the field as a diesel mechanic in the army. For the last 6 years I have worked on asphalt plants and a little on rock crushers. I am the first female to graduate the Operator's mechanic apprenticeship program in about 15 years. I went through the apprenticeship as a single mother, which proved to be challenging, but it can be done. I am also working on getting my associates degree (one more class). I love what I do and would be more than happy to assist anyone on their journey for a better life.
Phone: 253.222.6950
snshnlv7(at)hotmail.com
Cynthia Neubauer-Lee
TacomaMetropolitan Development Council
High-Demand Industry Training
Program Supervisor
2338 Tacoma Avenue South
Tacoma, WA 98402
Bio: 13 years in the field. The greatest part of my labor experience, I was a Carpenter, Cement Masonry and Plumber Helper. I worked on the Mercer Island and Hood's Canal Bridge, Burien, Renton, Federal Way Sewage Treatment Plants, Burien Water Tower, Black Diamond Sewer Installation Project and several Interstate 5 projects. Co-Founder of the Sisters in the Building Trades.
Phone: 253.284.9017
cneubauer(at)mdc-tacoma.org
Dana Durkin
RoyIron Worker Local #86
Bio: I joined the ironworkers apprenticeship 2001. I married an ironworker and am the mother of 2 small children. I like scrap booking, camping, riding the 4X4's,and cooking. I believe it's important to get more women into the trades.
Phone: 253.970.3315
dldiron3(at)comcast.net
Joyee Mendoza
SeattleCarpenters Local #131
Bio: I am a Journeywoman and Mother. I Married a carpenter.
Phone: 206.465.6959
Kathy Swan
TacomaLocal #470
Bio: Local #470 Organizer, Carpenter with 26 years in the industry.
Phone: 253.820.8260
kswan(at)nwcarpenters.org
Kim Collins
LakewoodCarpenters Local #816
Phone: 253.267.5357
kierakeya(at)yahoo.com
Lori Martin
MiltonOperators Local #302
Bio:Right after high school I worked a variety of minimum wage jobs ranging from food service and retail to assembly line production, making a decent wage in a deprived economy. In '04, living in Colville, WA, I made a hard decision to leave behind family and friends in search of a better life style. A life my dad and sister already achieved on the west side and supported my decision to pursue. I entered my apprenticeship in 05' with a short 8 wks of school and was promptly put to work with Scarsella Brothers, who I am still currently working for as a journeyman. The enjoyment, skills, and camaraderie I have gained in these three years are irreplaceable. I volunteered as a mentor with The Sisters In The Building Trades to become a resource to help anyone who wants a better way of life.
Phone: 425.890.1515
loriann_81(at)yahoo.com
Marilyn Oviatt
GrahamCarpenters Local #470
Bio: Co-Founder of the Sisters in the Building Trades, an instructor for the Carpenters Trust since 1999.
Home: 360.893.5561 (don't call before 1 pm)
Cell: 253.548.0279
maoviatt(at)centurytel.net
Martha Holly
EverettSheet Metal SMWIA Local #66
Bio: In the industry since 98, interested in mentoring and community volunteer work.
425.338.9581
martyandlo(at)verizon.net
Terry Tilton
Pierce & ThurstonOperating Engineer IUOE Local #612 Tacoma Since 1983
Bio: Lobbyist for the Union Building and Construction Trades: promoting the construction industry, jobs, apprenticeship, best value contracting procedures, safety and health, and infrastructure development and renewal in transportation, energy, water, sewer, and communications for healthy communities in Washington State and beyond. A 1982 graduate of A.N.E.W, lead to acceptance in the International Union of Operating Engineers JATC apprenticeship program to become an operator of cranes and heavy equipment on bridge, heavy highway, and other public and private works projects since 1983. I wanted a career that was rewarding mentally, physically, and financially, that didn’t pay women a different wage than men. It was also important to build a career that supports team work yet allows autonomy. Careers in the Building and Construction Trades are rewarding in all respects, and the job market for construction and the process to earn while you learn to take your education and career to obtain the highest level of achievement is at an all time high demand!The job market in Washington for skilled building and construction trades workers will remain in high demand for many years. 25 years as an Operating Engineer, now lobbying on behalf of the Building and Construction Trades Affiliate Unions to promote construction industry jobs that deliver: apprenticeship-to-pension careers, best value public works construction contracting, prevailed wages, safe working conditions, and infrastructure investments with an environmental and social conscience. Union Tradeswoman earns good wages, healthcare and builds a traditional quality pension from the first day of our apprenticeship. Pathways are open for us to afford a university degree in construction project management, own our own company, or simply enjoy the self respect and independence a skilled tradeswoman gains from a job well done. Previous experience isn’t required, just possess the drive to learn and work hard. Check out the variety of different careers available in the Union Building and Construction Trades at www.WaBuildingTrades.org If you’re interested in a particular trade and want more information, call on any Tradeswoman mentor to learn more..
Phone: 360.480.9591 or 253.381.9095
tradeswoman(at)qwest.net
Telsche Jaderlund
PuyallupCarpenters Local #470
Bio: Project manager- Foreman
Phone: 253.377.6795
Tracy Prezeau
TacomaElectricians Local #76
Bio: I have been in the electrical industry since 1998. I graduated our Inside Wireman's Apprenticeship in May of 2006. I have been the Recording Secretary for Local #76 since October 2003, and was the first woman to hold Executive office in our 110 year history. I currently fulfill the responsibilities of our Membership and Business Development Director (or Traditional Organizer) and have since December 2004.
Phone: 253.475.1192
tracyp(at)ibew76.org
Lewis, Kitsap, Snohomish, Thurston County and Other Areas
Brandi Lee
SnohomishPlumber Local #32
Bio: 4 years in the industry. I am a single woman with 3 children. I believe in Women encouraging one another and lifting each other up and not breaking us down. I am interested in community volunteer work, and being a volunteer speaker.
bnrttt(at)hotmail.com
Cathie Jett
BermertonOperating Engineers local # 286
Bio: 32 years in the industry, 26 years in the shipyard. Welder, sheet metal, and planner. On the board of the Washington Women in Trades Fair since 1989.
Phone: 360-479-2106
cajett1(at)msn.com
Helen O'Brian
Plumbers & Pipefitters Local #32Bio: 20 years in the industry.
plumb2fit(at)aol.com
Ilsa Petelle
EdmondsElectrician IBEW local #46
Bio: 11 years in the trade. I started as apprentice in 1996. Got into the trade so I could support myself and not have to rely on anyone. I've been fortunate enough to work my way up in my chosen profession from journeyman to foreman to my current position as a general foreman. I am the proud mother of 2 young children.
Phone: 206.850.8096
pipetelle(at)comcast.net
Jeri L. Hall
IBEW Local #46 Bio: 11 years in the industry.jlea(at)cablespeed.com
Judie McLaughlin
BelfairWelder Supervisor/PSNS
Bio: I Have been in the trades for 30 years. I have been an instructor, welder, supervisor, general foreman, project zone manager. Worked in the field as a production welder prior to federal service. I have two adult children whom I raised as a single mom working in the field as a welder. They are both on their own and doing well. My daughter, Jacquie owns her own business in San Francisco where I grew up. My son John lives in Port Orchard and works at Fred Meyer...we moved around a lot due to work, then after a long layoff I went to work for the government. I love to cook and being alone, the guys that work for me benefit from leftovers a lot..In the summer I train for a triathlon that we do in Seattle. I like to bike, rollerblade, swim, run/walk, lift weights etc....I am a very diversified person....glass half full all the time. My passion is helping others. I currently have a prison ministry where I share bible stories and how they have worked in my life. How the Lord has brought me through drug addiction to a life filled with blessings. I know, now that this is what I am here for. I am going to start ministry school in April and complete in 2010...hoping to grow the ministry and help as many women as I can to make a life for themselves. I am also a mentor at the prison and have one woman who will be getting released in a few months. I have learned that it is not about me....and now I am able to give back for all that I have been given. I NEVER imagined being here today and doing what I do. I have a lot to share.... Phone: 360.275.8806
judiethecutie(at)yahoo.com
Kayla Maxin
TeninoTeamsters Local #252
Bio: Bio: I have had my CDL for 18 years, 12 of which has been working as a teamster truck driver in construction. I originally started by going through the apprenticeship program in Pasco. I have lived in the Olympia area most of my life. Single mom of one son...who is now almost 22. Yippy. Worked hard and now it is time to do some things I enjoy other than work. I am very involved with the environment and volunteer for Puget Sound Keepers and South Sound Estuary Association.
Phone: 360.789.4310
seapixi(at)scattercreek.com
Laura Robinson
IBEW Local #46Bio: 18 years in the Broadcast industry, TV Editing.
Phone: 253.395.6520
laura(at)ibew46.com
Tammy Meyen
SultanSheet Metal SMWIA Local #66
Bio: In the industry since 99, interested in mentoring and community volunteer work.
425.244.1009
tamaradaisygirl(at)yahoo.com
