CSM GROUP ACCEPTS MULTIPLE HONORS FROM NAWIC

Women considering the field of construction need look no further for encouragement than to the recent honors awarded to CSM Group and some of its key employees by the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).

On March 28, the group’s local chapter gave its Best Program Award to CSM Group for its project The Richmond Center for Visual Arts at Western Michigan University. The honor takes note of the significant participation of NAWIC members in the program, the complex and unique finishes utilized in the actual construction, and the considerable community benefits to be provided by the building. (Read more about the project elsewhere in this newsletter!)

At the same event, Julie Byrne, a CSM Associate Partner and Project Manager, received the NAWIC “New Community Leader” Award. Julie received this award for her contributions in spearheading the construction of the new Girl Scouts of Glowing Embers Council Program and Training Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Julie’s efforts have been instrumental in producing a building that goes beyond simply meeting the organization’s needs and project objectives. She worked creatively with project partners throughout the design and construction of the facility to include features that would provide extra learning opportunities for the girls it will serve. (Picture, for example, walls with seethrough panels to allow girls to get a better understanding of construction techniques and building systems that most people take for granted.)

This kind of dedication and creativity not only adds value for the Girl Scouts, but also highlights Julie as a mentor and inspiration for girls in the community as they formulate their own career plans.

But the good news doesn’t stop there. Shannon Sauer-Becker, a Project Manager and recent addition to CSM Group, was awarded NAWIC’s “Foremost Leader 2007” award. Shannon, currently serving as Chapter President, has been a member for over a decade, and has held nearly every leadership position in the organization.

Past President Deb Cole praised Sauer- Becker’s skills and service, and called special attention to her ability to maintain the organization’s strong tradition of top-notch tours and speaker events, involving as many other trade organizations as possible.

“This focus has been key to our recruiting some great new members this year,” Cole said.

This type of commitment sets a great example for women interested in construction, and a demonstration of the opportunities the industry can offer.

We’re proud CSM Group has been recognized so prominently by the National Association of Women in Construction. But we’re even more proud of the talented women in our CSM family who do such great work, benefiting not only our clients, but also showing the way for the girls of our community who will play key roles in building tomorrow’s buildings, as well.