91ÊÓƵ

Icon

Laurie Kendall has dedicated two decades to transforming workforce development in the construction industry, with a particular focus on expanding opportunities for young people and underserved populations, while working with the Associated Builders and Contractors Pacific Northwest chapter.

Under Kendall’s leadership, the ABC PNW chapter achieved significant milestones in making construction careers accessible to the next generation. She spearheaded the creation of the local ABC Craft Championships, a landmark initiative that attracted 1,000 high school students to learn about apprenticeship opportunities in the trades. The event serves as a crucial bridge between students and construction careers, introducing young people to the skills and pathways available in the industry.

Kendall’s commitment to educational access led ABC PNW to become an accredited sponsor of the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) curriculum, enabling the organization to sponsor Oregon high schools in teaching industry-standard construction education. This achievement expanded the reach of quality construction training to students across the state.

Recognizing the need to support emerging professionals, Kendall launched the Young Professionals Program for ABC members, creating a structured pathway for career development and industry engagement. She also champions second-chance opportunities, promoting apprenticeship programs at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility to help incarcerated women build viable career paths upon release.

Beyond her executive responsibilities, Kendall has invested in developing critical safety and wellness capabilities within the construction community. She became a certified CPR instructor to train ABC members, ensuring they possess life-saving skills on job sites. Additionally, she serves as a Vital Cog suicide prevention instructor, addressing the mental health challenges that construction workers face.

Kendall extends her commitment to service through involvement with the American Red Cross, further demonstrating her dedication to community welfare.

A graduate of Eastern Montana College, Kendall has built her 20-year career on the principle that construction offers meaningful opportunities for all. Through her continuing work with ABC PNW and now as owner of her own firm, Kendall Executive Solutions LLC, she will continue to reshape how the industry attracts, trains and supports its workforce, making lasting contributions to both individual lives and the broader construction community.

Kendall also was recognized as a 91ÊÓƵ Oregon Women of Vision Circle of Excellence honoree this past October.