Psalms Morales (they/them), Executive Director, First Choice Construction Foundation

Psalms is passionate about free and equitable career opportunities for diverse populations. They studied gender and sexuality studies, and have worked as a consultant with Bain & Co., in development with a mental health startup, and bring extensive experience in go-to-market strategy for large and small businesses. Bringing all this experience to bear as executive director at FCCF, Psalms has helped the organization grow 10-fold in their first year alone by writing and developing FCCF's flagship Leadership Program which is backed by the DOES, WIC, MORCA, and DSI. Psalms lives in Washington, DC, with their sphinx, Boricua, where they enjoy teaching yoga, reading, and traveling in their spare time.

Sinade Wadsworth (she/her), Union Organizer, New York City District Council of Carpenters

Sinade is extremely invested in raising the standard for her community, and believes that pre-apprenticeship programs like NEW have the power to radically transform lives and create the cycle of progress. As a proud union carpenter from New York City, she worked her way up the ranks to become the youngest union organizer for the NYC District Council of Carpenters. Her success is a testament to the life-changing potential of these programs, which launched her exceptional career. Serving as a power testament to those who doubt themselves, Sinade's story demonstrates that the American dream can be a reality for anyone; all you have to do is look to where you want to go.

Beverly Richardson (she/her), Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, AECOM

Bev is passionate about equity, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I) initiatives that promote change. She has a deep understanding of the factors that influence ED&I in a workplace from her 25+ years working in Human Resources across several industries, including healthcare and biotech. Working with diverse teams during this time, she recognizes the importance of diversity in organizations and their cultures. In her current role at AECOM, Bev oversees the ED&I strategy development and implementation of programs and initiatives throughout the Americas. She also volunteers and serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Racial Equity & Social Justice Alliance (RESJA), a not-for-profit that drives initiatives addressing legislative, economic, and education matters impacting underrepresented communities.

Cory Jones Jr. (he/him), President, First Choice Masonry

Cory constantly pushes the the limits of the construction industry by embracing new and inventive methods. He brings a fervent dedication to a more promising future, particularly as a minority-owned masonry business, and through his efforts in empowering the community. As a third-generation construction leader, Cory has held roles spanning from project management to executive leadership, and worked on projects in both the public and private sectors, from iconic landmarks to cutting-edge developments. From his diligent work and delivery of remarkable results, Cory is known excellence, innovation, and expertise for his craft, the same qualities he instills in the communities with which he works to push the industry forward.

Building Stories: Constructing Open Conversations