Success Stories
Explore the stories below to see how the project is transforming ODOT’s business processes and lifting people of color through economic opportunities. To read each story, simply click on the images below.
Thank you to Intisar Abioto and Temitope Timothy for producing the compelling portraits. Intisar is a Portland-based photographer and small business owner with a keen eye for visual storytelling. Temitope is a Portland-based photographer who takes great pride in capturing the true spirit and personality of the people and subjects she photographs.
Tayo Adesida, Field Engineer
"All the things coming up around this project hit too close to home, literally."
Laura Ramirez, Field Engineer
"Growing up, if I didn't see girls doing something, then I would want to do that thing."
Eric Knox, Coach & Mentor
“Programs don’t change people, people change people, period."
Larry Anderson, Advisor & Public Servant
“Ain’t nobody going to support us like we support us.”
Crystal Stone, Office Manager
“Working in an industry dominated by white men, Black women have to work twice as hard to get the same outcome as our peers.”
Turon White, Foreman
“Don’t be scared to try—don’t be scared to bet on you.”
Terrence Hayes, Workforce Advocate
“Individuals like myself are the change that can positively affect the story that we’re creating.”
Jeff Moreland Jr., Construction Manager
"With so many major projects on the horizon, there’s plenty of work to go around."
DeAngelo Moaning, I.T. and Operations
“We need to take back the trades that were rightfully ours to begin with and capitalize on the opportunities in front of us.”
Dr. Steven Holt, Owner
“We have a chance to do something good, something bigger than ourselves. These opportunities don’t come along every day. When they do, we must seize them for generations to follow.”
Ericka Warren, Strategic Advisor and Facilitator
“I wish that the community knew how many people of color have been brought to the table on this project...”
Melinda Sandifer, Owner
“No one is going to tell me there is something that I can’t do.”
Monica Leal, Principal
"We are committed to serving the community through our work. It's an important job."
