WSDOT, Port of Seattle and Sound Transit honor 2011 ‘Champions of Inclusion’ for their work with disadvantaged businesses

Manson Construction Co. is the Port of Seattle’s “Champion of Inclusion” award recipient. For many years, the company, which is a family-owned and operated marine construction and dredging business headquartered in Seattle, has demonstrated their commitment to utilizing small businesses and providing contracting opportunities to small firms. Manson Construction sponsors small business training classes and seminars designed to educate and contribute to the success and growth of small firms in the Puget Sound region.

“Small businesses are vital to the region’s economy, and the port is committed to providing opportunities to them whenever we can,” said Port of Seattle CEO Tay Yoshitani. “We are pleased to honor Manson for their partnership in helping those businesses to generate more jobs and economic growth for Seattle.”

WSDOT, the Port of Seattle and Sound Transit work to create a level playing field and increase the opportunities for minority and women-owned small businesses on federal-aid construction projects. Each agency sets individual project goals for contractors to use certified DBE firms. Goals are based on formulas that consider the type of project work; the location and size of the project; and the availability of ready, willing and able DBEs to perform work on the project.

Abridged version. Read the full article at: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2011/11/21_ChampionsOfInclusionAward.htm