The Daily Journal of Commerce is a proud supporter of minority-owned businesses operating in the construction industry in Oregon or Southwest Washington. The editorial department has handpicked 14 such businesses to spotlight. These firms in construction and related fields have made our “In the Lead” list for the “Best Minority-owned Businesses” of 2026.

Honorees are selected by the 91��Ƶ’s editorial department. Each one has navigated challenges to make an impact in the building industry as well as the community. These honorees are helping construction become ever more diverse while also garnering exceptional reputations. We invite you to join us in tipping our caps to these business leaders who are putting their expertise into improving our region.

Advanced Tribal

City of Roses Disposal & Recycling

Dream Team Junk Removal

Hartley-Waltz Construction

Hermanos Rebar

Herrejon Rebar

In the Lead: Minority-Owned Businesses

J.A. Mechanical

Nexus Electrical Group

RJ Ramos

Safeguard Security

Smart Optimal Solutions

Vela Projects

WDX Specialties

ZANA Construction

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CEO Seyona Belai leads ZANA Construction Company, a commercial construction firm specializing in finish carpentry, with a focus on precision, collaboration and respect for the craft. Belai has more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry, including 15 years as CEO of ZANA, guiding its growth and reputation for high-quality workmanship.

Under Belai’s leadership, the minority-owned company has increased its workforce to 32 employees and increased annual revenue from $4.8 million to $6.4 million in the most recent fiscal year. ZANA has built a diverse workforce and a collaborative culture; in 2019 the company employed people representing more than 23 countries.

Belai’s approach to leadership was shaped by early influences emphasizing discipline, problem-solving and respect. Those values inform the company’s emphasis on clear expectations, fairness and consistent performance as drivers of trust and project success.

ZANA’s current focus includes delivering high-quality Division 6, 8 and 10 finish carpentry work, strengthening relationships with general contractors, and maintaining steady operations while refining internal coordination.

“Being a minority-owned business in Oregon means leading a company that reflects the workforce on today’s job sites,” Belai stated. “When people are respected for their skills and held to a shared standard, collaboration improves, teams perform better, and the work speaks for itself.”

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WDX Specialties LLC is a Vancouver, Washington-based specialty construction contractor and supplier that focuses on Division 10 architectural and commercial construction products. Founded two years ago, the company has established a reputation for reliability and performance, growing revenue from $56,000 in its first fiscal year to $320,000 most recently.

The company is led by CEO Christopher Warren. He previously co-owned Oregon Door Consultants LLC for five years before a partnership split led to the company’s closure. Rebuilding from that experience, he launched WDX Specialties, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to long-term success. He credits strong industry relationships and persistence as key factors in the company’s growth.

WDX Specialties supports minority businesses through mentorship, offering coaching and guidance to help others avoid common challenges and build sustainable operations. The company also serves as an accessible resource for business owners seeking advice.

Looking ahead, WDX Specialties is focused on expanding its project portfolio, strengthening contractor relationships and improving internal systems to support scalable growth while maintaining service quality.

“Being a minority-owned business in Washington means more than representation — it means opportunity, resilience, and responsibility,” Warren stated. “We’re proud to contribute to the state’s economy, build strong industry partnerships, and demonstrate that diversity and excellence go hand in hand.”

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Vela Projects LLC is an owner’s representation and project management firm founded eight years ago with a mission to enhance the built environment for the benefit of communities. The company is led by principal Ken Kinoshita, who established the firm after overcoming early career challenges related to immigration and visa restrictions, as well as barriers associated with being a non-native English speaker in a highly technical field.

Kinoshita built Vela Projects as a 100 percent minority-owned business, growing it from a sole proprietorship into a small team, reaching three members in 2024. Under his leadership, the firm developed a mission-aligned project pipeline that includes affordable housing initiatives with community-centered organizations and a sustainably built townhome development. That same year, the company received its first industry recognition: NAMC-Oregon’s Breaking Barriers Award.

In addition to his professional work, Kinoshita served as a board member and two-term president of AREAA Portland and remained active in the National Association of Minority Contractors, contributing educational content in Spanish and English. He also served as a board member for Path Home.

Being a minority business owner means “embracing diversity as a strength” and normalizing leadership that reflects the communities served, Kinoshita stated.

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Smart Optimal Solutions – SOS America, founded two years ago, specializes in sourcing, aggregating, and distributing sustainable, cost-effective energy products. The company has 60.92 percent minority ownership and now employs 35 people. Revenues increased to $5.5 million for the most recent fiscal year from $4.1 million.

Under the leadership of CEO Patrice Tsague, SOS America has expanded its footprint in smart solar and interactive display technologies across the East and West coasts. The company recently installed Oregon’s first solar-plus-storage DC fast-charging station at Wildhorse Resort & Casino’s Arrowhead Travel Plaza. The facility features four dual-dispenser XCharge GridLink chargers with integrated solar and battery capacity.

Tsague explained that being a minority business owner means challenging stereotypes and using his platform to empower others.

“To be a minority business owner is to represent my community in spaces where we aren’t always seen,” he stated. “It’s about proving that we don’t just belong in this industry — we can lead it.”

Looking ahead, SOS America plans to launch a Technology Innovation Center in Vancouver, Washington, expand Smart City projects to three new cities, integrate AI across operations, and establish the SOS Global Fund to reduce costs and open opportunities for minority-owned businesses.

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Portland-based Safeguard Security is a security company that provides fire watch and asset protection services, primarily at new construction sites. Over its 17-year history, the 100 percent minority-owned firm has grown to 35 employees and reported $3.1 million in revenue in its most recent fiscal year. Led by President Hasan Artharee, the company has built a reputation for reliability and professionalism while serving commercial and institutional clients across the region.

Safeguard Security’s recent accomplishments include securing high-profile project sites such as Nike’s LeBron James Building, multiple Portland Public Schools modernizations and the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in downtown Portland. These engagements reflect the trust placed in the firm and its ability to protect complex, high-visibility sites.

The company focuses on sustainable growth by expanding its client base, strengthening partnerships and investing in workforce development through training, certifications and professional advancement opportunities. Safeguard Security emphasizes fair wages, recruitment and promotion of individuals from underrepresented communities, and community engagement through mentorship and local partnerships.

Artharee said being a minority business owner means creating opportunity where it has historically been limited and building pathways for economic growth and representation while maintaining a commitment to excellence, equity and community service.

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RJ Ramos is a COBID-certified general contractor specializing in projects now with 20 years in business. The 100 percent minority-owned company employs 34 people and amassed $6.7 million in revenues in the most recent fiscal year – up from $4.7 million the prior year.

Under President Randy Ramos’ leadership, the company has developed a portfolio of contracting and electrical capabilities while serving as training agent for IBEW Local 48, the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters, and others. The firm emphasizes a culture centered on respect, accountability, motivation, organization and safety. RJ Ramos focuses on recruiting, developing and retaining team members.

Ramos, a first-generation American, has navigated financial and social barriers common to minority-owned business owners. He cited the sacrifices made and values instilled by his family and community as foundational to the company’s growth. RJ Ramos supports minorities through community outreach and engagement with youth, and by providing opportunities for participation, learning and advancement.

The firm’s accomplishments include work on the PDX Terminal Core Redevelopment project, the East County Library, and the Powell Garage Gantry Charging Infrastructure project. Ramos has committed to bearing the responsibility of upholding the community through respect, inclusionary business practices and actions that speak louder than words.

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Nexus Electrical Group is a minority-owned electrical contractor that provides commercial and residential services including installations, generators, and EV chargers. Seven years ago, Eric Martinez founded the Beaverton-based company that now employs 10 people. He has guided Nexus Electrical Group’s growth into a service provider capable of handling complex projects for general contractors and developers.

Key accomplishments include completing the company’s largest project to date on time and on budget, expanding through referrals, and building a team advancing apprentices toward certification. The firm also prioritizes training individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, supports minority-owned suppliers when possible, and engages with local community partners.

Looking ahead, Nexus Electrical Group is focused on hiring skilled electricians, strengthening project management systems, and pursuing larger projects to expand its capabilities while deepening relationships with industry partners.

“Being a minority-owned electrical contractor in Oregon means we’re changing this industry,” Martinez stated. “We’re here to do excellent work, create jobs, and show that diversity makes us stronger. Every project proves that talent needs opportunity and every person we mentor is an investment in an inclusive future for the trades.”

The company is continuing to pursue growth and contractor relationships.

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J.A. Mechanical LLC is a family-owned commercial HVAC contractor specializing in dry-side systems, including VRF, mini-splits, PTACs, refrigerant piping and custom sheet metal ductwork. Founded 13 years ago, company employs 14 people and is led by Chief Executive Officer Jesus Aguiar. The firm reports $1.5 million in revenue for the most recent fiscal year.

J.A. Mechanical has built its reputation on technical expertise, consistent training and adoption of current technologies. Its team includes project managers and technicians who focus on quality across service and new construction work. Recent accomplishments include delivering a seven-story, 94-unit building, a milestone that reflected coordinated work across the organization. Leadership has emphasized creating opportunities for Latinos in the HVAC trade, including hands-on training and efforts to overcome language barriers. An apprenticeship program is in development as part of its workforce strategy.

Minority ownership is about perseverance, Aguiar stated, noting that the company’s progress demonstrates what can be achieved through dedication while opening doors for future generations. The firm continues to navigate access to capital, pricing perceptions and workforce recruitment while pursuing steady growth, stronger general contractor relationships and more opportunities.

“Every challenge we overcome makes the future feel brighter, not just for us, but for the next generation that will follow,” Aguiar stated.

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Patricia Herrejon is president of Herrejon Rebar LLC, a minority-owned construction firm specializing in rebar reinforcing and post-tension installation. The company has operated for three and a half years and employs 15 people. Under Herrejon’s leadership, the firm reported revenue growth from $500,000 to $1.2 million in the most recent fiscal year, reflecting repeat business with prime contractors and a reputation built on performance and accountability.

Perspective, resilience and lived experience guide Herrejon’s leadership, Herrejon stated. Minority ownership reflects a commitment to expanding access and demonstrating that excellence and diversity can coexist in the construction industry, she added.

Herrejon described challenges accessing large contracts and capital and building credibility in a male-dominated field. Such experiences strengthened her negotiation skills, operational discipline and confidence, she stated.

Herrejon supports minorities via hiring practices that provide fair wages and benefits, along with mentorship and a workplace culture that emphasizes core values and inclusion. Looking ahead, she aims to pursue strategic growth, secure larger contracts and create additional job opportunities within her community. Herrejon Rebar’s success reflects discipline, capability and leadership at the highest level, she added.

“This year represents a major milestone for our company,” Herrejon stated. “I have created a great reputation with major contractors.”

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