Hello, and happy Women’s History Month.
At the Port of Seattle, we work to continually empower and advocate for women in the workplace and in the community as a whole.
As your Port of Seattle Commissioner, I find March especially meaningful — a time to celebrate and reflect on the extraordinary contributions of women across every field. From labor leaders who fought for equal pay and the five-day workweek, to Indigenous women who ground us in environmental stewardship, to women in business who break barriers and build legacies. We honor working women balancing it all, and women in the arts and advocacy who challenge injustice and inspire change. I know their courage made my path possible — and our collective strength keeps it going.
One of the highlights of this month was Women in Construction Week, an event organized by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). This year, the Port celebrated the remarkable achievements and dedication of women working within our own construction teams. These modern-day Rosie the Riveters represent diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, yet they all share an unwavering commitment to advancing female representation in this historically male-dominated industry.
Whether working on waterfront projects or improvements at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, more women are helping build the Port now than ever before. While women have faced (and sometimes continue to face) significant challenges in securing a career in the construction workforce (including overt sexism), the tides are finally slowly turning in the direction of equal representation. Women are now 10.8% of the construction workforce — a noticeable increase from 9.1% in 2017 — but we still have a long way to go. Through the Port’s Diversity in Contracting team, along with our Women and Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) programs, we are continually creating new opportunities for women-owned construction businesses.
Among these superheroines is Lisa Phair, the Port’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Manager. A lifelong Seattle resident with over 15 years at the Port, Lisa tirelessly champions equitable access to port-related construction work by supporting WMDBE businesses. Lisa believes in the necessity of female leadership in construction, recognizing that diversity at decision-making levels is essential for creating inclusive workplaces. Lisa advises women interested in construction to pursue apprenticeships, seek mentorship, remain open to new opportunities, and above all, follow their interests and passions, no matter what.
Beyond her professional contributions, Lisa exemplifies leadership in the community, actively participating in organizations such as Tabor 100, the American Contract Compliance Association (ACCA), Blacks in Government (BIG), and the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). Lisa is truly an inspiring figure, embodying the dedication and passion that Women's History Month seeks to highlight. Go Lisa!
Women’s Outstanding Achievement Awards
In addition to recognizing Women in Construction Week, this month I had the honor of speaking at the Port's annual Women’s Outstanding Achievement Awards. This event is a testament to the strength, resilience, and remarkable accomplishments of women across all Port divisions. It serves as a vital reminder of the collective power we possess when we uplift and celebrate each other's achievements.
Women's History Month is not only about celebrating past achievements but also about ensuring that the path ahead is paved with equal opportunities and sustained support for women in every aspect of life. Together, let's continue to champion these remarkable women — our superheroines without capes — and build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
— Commissioner Hamdi Mohamed
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