Each year, the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) celebrates the individuals and organizations breaking barriers, driving innovation, and promoting equity across Canada’s construction industry. The 2025 CAWIC Award Winners are an inspiring group of trailblazers who are not just transforming their workplaces — they’re reshaping the entire industry’s culture.
As CAWIC notes, these winners “exemplify the strength, creativity and perseverance that continue to redefine what inclusion and excellence look like across Canada’s worksites, boardrooms, and classrooms
1. About the CAWIC Awards
The Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) recognizes leaders who are actively shaping a more inclusive and equitable construction industry. The annual awards celebrate innovation, mentorship, and advocacy — values that are key to ensuring women have equal opportunities in construction and related fields.
2. Corporate Member of the Year – The Home Depot Canada
The Home Depot Canada was recognized for its outstanding corporate leadership in supporting women in trades and construction.
- Hosted Women in Construction panel events across the country
- Brought together tradeswomen, industry leaders, and students to share experiences
- Strengthened CAWIC’s community partnerships and expanded its outreach
Their efforts continue to inspire other organizations to take similar actions that foster inclusion and opportunity.
3. DEI Excellence Award – Stephanie Morand, EllisDon
Stephanie Morand, Community Engagement Manager at EllisDon, has built her career on passion and perseverance.
- Started as a structural steel welder and moved into safety management
- Now focuses on community engagement and equity initiatives
- Her current project ensures 30% participation from equity-seeking groups
- Introduced free menstrual products on job sites and supported Vancouver’s first Women On Site chapter
Morand’s leadership continues to drive systemic change and inspire future generations of builders.
4. Emerging Leader – Gina Chorna, Ledcor Construction
Gina Chorna, Project Manager at Ledcor Construction, exemplifies determination and excellence.
- Earned her engineering degree while managing major infrastructure projects
- Played a key role in the Edmonton Capital Line South Extension
- Contributed to projects such as the Edmonton Valley Line West and Garneau Redevelopment
Her leadership and ability to coordinate complex teams have earned her recognition as one of Canada’s most promising emerging leaders in construction.
5. Industry Leader – Nour Hachem, Build a Dream
Nour Hachem, President and Founder of Build a Dream, has been a tireless advocate for diversity and inclusion in the skilled trades for over 20 years.
- Founded Build a Dream to challenge gender stereotypes in technical careers
- Helped thousands of Canadians explore opportunities in skilled trades and leadership
- Expanded Build a Dream into a national organization promoting equity and education
Her mission continues to empower women to build their own futures in an industry once seen as out of reach.
6. Student of the Year – Madison Kidd, Ontario Tech University
Madison Kidd, a Mechanical Engineering student at Ontario Tech University, stands out for her academic excellence and leadership.
- Discovered her passion through Habitat for Humanity projects
- Revitalized the Women in Engineering Club and served as president
- Founded an ASME student chapter and led environmental cleanup drives
- Organized peer study sessions to help others succeed
Kidd’s story reflects the future of Canadian construction — one driven by collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation.
7. Volunteer of the Year – Dunya Lackovic, CAWIC Founding Member
Dunya Lackovic has been part of CAWIC since its inception nearly 20 years ago.
- Helped establish CAWIC’s foundation and served as the first Awards Committee Director
- Designed a scholarship program that awards $20,000 annually in bursaries
- Continues to volunteer and mentor young women entering the industry
Her dedication to CAWIC’s mission has created lasting opportunities for women in construction nationwide.
8. President’s Award – Lisa Laronde, Ramudden Global
Lisa Laronde, Chief Transformation Officer at Ramudden Global, has been honored with CAWIC’s prestigious President’s Award.
- Leads with vision, authenticity, and a strong commitment to equity
- Strengthened strategic partnerships and expanded CAWIC’s scholarship initiatives
- Championed the WOMEN Building Canada campaign
- Advanced CAWIC’s national credibility and industry influence
Laronde’s leadership is transforming how organizations across Canada embrace diversity and build inclusive workplaces.
9. Why These Awards Matter
The CAWIC Awards highlight the vital role women play in shaping Canada’s construction industry. From students and engineers to corporate leaders and advocates, each winner’s contribution reinforces a shared goal — to make the industry fairer, stronger, and more inclusive.
10. The Future of Women in Construction
With growing recognition from organizations like CAWIC, more women are entering and excelling in the construction field than ever before. By promoting mentorship, education, and equality, CAWIC and its partners are laying the foundation for a future where every individual has the chance to lead and thrive in the industry.