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In just three years as the diversity and compliance manager for Turner Construction‘s Portland office, Stacey Drake Edwards has helped the firm make good on a commitment to foster diversity in the local building industry.

As part of a company program focused on helping women- and minority-owned firms and emerging small businesses, Edwards led the creation of small business training opportunities for MWESB firms with the goal of helping them get their names on bid lists and gain access to project teams.

Edwards also has led the charge to help Turner create long-term partnerships with Portland groups that include the Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs and the Oregon chapter of the National Association of Minority Contractors.

Edwards’ involvement with – and her commitment to – the construction industry extends back 15 years. She has seen firsthand how firms in the industry are struggling to find new workers to supplement a shrinking workforce, and is a strong advocate for education as a way to build a strong future workforce. As part of a commitment to help the construction industry attract new recruits, Edwards has worked with Constructing Hope, a Portland program that helps connect young people with apprenticeship opportunities.

Edwards also serves as secretary of the Business Diversity Institute, a Portland group that organizes Minority Enterprise Week, an annual event that holds workshops for small businesses and those involved in diversity efforts.