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LUNA AWARDS

2024

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

Why Attend? Learn about the $ Billions in Construction Project Opportunities

JOIN US TO MEET TXDOT LEADERSHIP AND EXPLORE UPCOMING PROJECT OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.

AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO

Thursday, November 14, 2024 | 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Tucker Ferguson, P.E.

Austin District Engineer TxDOT

Greg Snider, P.E.

Alternative Delivery Director TxDOT

Charles Benavidez, P.E.

San Antonio District Engineer TxDOT

Phillip Howlett, P.E.

San Antonio Service Center TxDOT

HOUSTON/BEAUMONT

Friday, November 22, 2024 | 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Martin Gonzalez, P.E.

Beaumont District Engineer

TxDOT

Partnering Associations

Varuna A. Singh, P.E.

Houston Deputy District Engineer TxDOT

DALLAS/FORT WORTH

Thursday, December 19, 2024 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Ceason Clemens, P.E.

Dallas District engineer TxDOT

Brenan Honey, P.E.

Dallas District Construction, TxDOT

RHCA ANNIVERSARY

Fallsarethe#1causeofworkplaceinjuriesandfatalities

Source:TheCenterforConstructionResearchandTraining

From 2011 to 2020, there was an annual average of 963 fatal injuries among all construction workers and 78,000 nonfatal injuries among hourly wage and salaried construction workers

Fatal injury rates increased from 2011 to 2020, among those who were under age 55, Hispanic, and male.

FALLS ARE THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN CONSTRUCTION In 2020, there were 351 fatal falls to a lower level out of 1,008 construction fatalities.

REGISTER YOUR TEAM FOR FREE OSHA-CERTIFIED FALL PROTECTION TRAINING IN DALLAS, HOUSTON, OR FORT WORTH.

Classes available in English & Spanish

The Fall Protection Class is a one-day, two-hour course Upon completing the two-hour course, each student will receive a “Certificate of Completion” of the OSHA Susan Harwood Training Grant Fall Protection.

Dallas Friday, November 8, 2024

English - 7:30 AM - 10 AM CT Register Here

Spanish - 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM CT Register Here

Dallas College West Dallas Center 3330 N Hampton Rd Dallas, TX 75212

Houston Friday, November 8, 2024

English - 7:30 AM - 10 AM CT Register Here

Spanish - 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM CT Register Here

RHCA Houston Training Center 7047 Harrisburg Blvd, 2nd Floor Houston, TX 77011

Fort Worth

Friday, November 22, 2024

English - 7:30 AM - 10 AM CT Register Here

Spanish - 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM CT Register Here

Business Assistance Center (BAC) 1150 South Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76104

Free Family Holiday Event

RHCA Annual Toy, Food Drive & Blankets

Thursday, Dec 5, 2024

Celebrate a fantastic year with the Contractors Association!

h members, partners, friends, and family. tertainment, and surprises for all ages.

2024 LUNA AWARDS

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

Celebrating Record-Breaking Achievements at the Luna Awards

The Luna Awards reached new heights this year, uniting six Texas cities in a celebration of extraordinary achievements by women, women-owned businesses, and advocates in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Houston, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Rio Grande Valley, and Dallas/Fort Worth each hosted events, contributing to what has become the largest Luna Awards yet, with record-breaking attendance and the highest number of nominees in the program’s history.

The Luna Awards recognize not only outstanding professional accomplishments but also the dedication of those who foster the advancement of women across all AEC sectors. This year’s event was particularly memorable, with enthusiastic attendance and heartfelt celebrations in each city

LUNA AWARDS

Houston

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

The Luna Awards luncheon in Houston was filled with energy, camaraderie, and an unmistakable spirit of celebration. Attendees gathered not only to honor the award recipients but to connect, share stories, and champion the achievements of women across the AEC industry.

Inspiring words from our President and CEO, John H. Martinez, and Vice President and COO Yolanda Tafoya set a powerful tone, encouraging everyone to continue breaking boundaries and supporting one another.

Their messages resonated with the crowd, leaving attendees motivated and uplifted.

AWARD RECIPIENTS Houston 2024 LUNA AWARDS ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

On October 3, Houston hosted a remarkable luncheon and awards ceremony at the Hotel ZAZA in the Museum District, honoring three exceptional recipients:

Marylou Marroquin of Webber received the Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year award for her dedication and excellence

Porscha Jackson from the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity earned the prestigious title of Woman of the Year A/E/C for her outstanding contributions.

Texas Technical Trade School, led by Elvia Quintanilla, was awarded Service Firm of the Year, recognizing its significant impact in providing specialized training within the industry.

Each recipient exemplifies the spirit of the Luna Awards, bringing expertise, innovation, and support to the AEC fields.

With this year’s extraordinary participation and impact, the Luna Awards continues to inspire and elevate women and advocates who are transforming the face of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction in Texas

Thank you for being a part of Luna Houston 2024.

The event captured unforgettable moments, all now available in our photo gallery. To view the full gallery and relive these inspiring highlights, click on the buttons below.

See Full Gallery

LUNA AWARDS

San Antonio

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

San Antonio Luna Awards Luncheon

Celebrating Excellence in AEC

On October 10, the Luna Awards Luncheon at San Antonio's Marriott Riverwalk Hotel brought together a dynamic community of industry leaders, advocates, and supporters to celebrate outstanding achievements in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC).

This year’s event, part of our biggest Luna Awards series to date, honored women and women-owned businesses whose dedication and impact continue to elevate the AEC industry in Texas.

2024 LUNA AWARDS ARCHITECTURE,

ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

San Antonio

A W A R D R E C I P I E N T S

The luncheon buzzed with energy, with guests enjoying a mix of camaraderie, inspiration, and heartfelt recognition Shelley Rappmund from JC Stoddard Construction and Liz Caraway from Middleman Construction each took the stage to share personal reflections on their journeys

Shelley Rappmund was awarded the Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year for her tireless commitment to her role and support of her colleagues. Liz Caraway received the prestigious Woman of the Year A/E/C Award, a testament to her leadership and significant contributions to the San Antonio AEC community.

Both women inspired the audience with stories of resilience and dedication, underscoring the importance of advocacy and opportunity within the industry

2024LUNAAWARDS

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, ANDCONSTRUCTION

The Luna Awards continue to encourage all AEC professionals to recognize and uplift each other, fostering a future where women play an increasingly prominent role in shaping the built environment. For more memorable moments, relive the day by browsing our full photo gallery by clicking the button below.

See Full Gallery

LUNA AWARDS

Austin

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

Austin Luna Awards Luncheon

Honoring Trailblazers in AEC with Passion and Purpose

The Austin Luna Awards Luncheon on October 11 brought together the city’s top professionals and advocates in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction at the Austin Marriott Downtown

The event was filled with engaging conversations, new connections, and, most importantly, the recognition of individuals and firms driving positive change in the industry.

As part of the largest Luna Awards series yet, Austin’s luncheon underscored the importance of collaboration and diversity in fostering industry innovation

2024 LUNA AWARDS ARCHITECTURE,

ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

Austin

AWARD RECIPIENTS

The awards ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of four exceptional honorees. Elizabeth Sturgill of Maximus Construction LLC was named Woman of the Year A/E/C, a well-deserved accolade for her leadership and contribution to Austin’s AEC landscape Inez Escamilla’s Loose Cannon Industries, LLC received the A/E/C Firm of the Year Award for embodying excellence and setting a high standard for quality and integrity in the industry

Blue Chip Services, LLC by Rita Gamboa was honored as Service Firm of the Year, applauded for its commitment to exceptional service, while Clarice Nadig Barry from Flintco, LLC was recognized as Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year, celebrating her dedication to her team and outstanding organizational skills

2024LUNAAWARDS

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, ANDCONSTRUCTION

Throughout the luncheon, attendees shared in the inspiring words of the awardees, whose personal stories highlighted the power of perseverance, vision, and the importance of fostering opportunities for women in AEC Their words left a lasting impact, reminding everyone of the essential role each person plays in building a stronger, more inclusive future To see the highlights from this inspiring day, visit the full gallery by clicking the button below

See Full Gallery

LUNA AWARDS

El Paso

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

El Paso Luna Awards Luncheon

A Celebration of Excellence and Community in AEC

On October 18, The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park hosted the El Paso Luna Awards Luncheon, a gathering of influential leaders, advocates, and innovators from the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) fields.

As the Luna Awards continue to grow, this year’s event in El Paso celebrated the city’s leading women professionals and firms whose dedication is shaping the region's built environment.

The warm and supportive atmosphere underscored the spirit of community and advancement for women in AEC

AWARD RECIPIENTS El Paso 2024 LUNA AWARDS ARCHITECTURE,

ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

Award recipients shared stories of their journey, challenges, and triumphs, providing moments of inspiration that resonated deeply with all attendees.

Paulina Lagos from Exigo was awarded Woman of the Year A/E/C, recognized for her innovative approach and strong leadership. Countryman & Co., led by Jennifer Countryman, was named A/E/C Firm of the Year, celebrated for its commitment to excellence and community impact. Nancy Lee Herrera from DEC, a part of Gannett Fleming, was honored with the Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year Award, reflecting her dedication and the essential role she plays in her organization’s success.

Each awardee’s words served as a reminder of the importance of supporting women in every aspect of the industry and the unique perspective they bring to their work

2024LUNAAWARDS

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, ANDCONSTRUCTION

The luncheon was a testament to El Paso’s growing influence in the AEC community, with each guest leaving inspired and hopeful for the future. To experience more from this event, explore our full gallery by clicking the button below.

See Full Gallery

LUNA AWARDS

RGV

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

Rio Grande Valley Luna Awards Luncheon

Recognizing Visionaries and Changemakers in AEC

The Luna Awards concluded its Texas tour on October 23 at the Doubletree Hotel in the Rio Grande Valley

Bringing together the region’s most respected and innovative professionals, the event celebrated the achievements of women and firms making transformative contributions in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction

As part of the largest Luna Awards to date, the Rio Grande Valley luncheon emphasized the importance of diversity and leadership within AEC.

Rio Grande Valley 2024 LUNA AWARDS ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING,

AND CONSTRUCTION

AWARD RECIPIENTS

The ceremony highlighted the achievements of inspiring honorees Karla Garza of VMK Concrete received the Woman of the Year A/E/C Award for her leadership, resilience, and commitment to pushing boundaries in the industry.

Ethny Fantich’s Fantich Design Build was awarded A/E/C Firm of the Year for its dedication to quality and innovation, while Sarah Sagredo-Hammond’s Atlas Electrical, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Services, Inc. was celebrated as Service Firm of the Year, a testament to her firm’s reputation for excellence and customer service.

Maria De la Fuente Ortiz with Roofing A-1 and Construction Corporation was honored as Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year, recognized for her contributions to the firm’s growth and efficiency

2024LUNAAWARDS

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, ANDCONSTRUCTION

With the backdrop of a lively and supportive environment, the luncheon was a powerful reminder of the incredible impact that women in AEC have in shaping our communities The award recipients’ words inspired attendees to continue supporting and uplifting one another, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and advocacy Explore the complete gallery of memorable moments from this event by clicking the button below

See Full Gallery

LUNA AWARDS

D/FW

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

Celebrating a Grand Finale of Empowerment and Achievement

On November 1, the Luna Awards reached an inspiring crescendo at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel, concluding the 2024 series with a magnificent celebration in Dallas/Fort Worth

The final event was nothing short of extraordinary, embodying the spirit of empowerment, resilience, and recognition that has defined this year’s Luna Awards.

This grand finale was the largest of the entire Texas series, featuring a record-breaking number of attendees, nominees, and partners, and was a true testament to the strength and unity of the AEC community.

The event brought together industry leaders, allies, and champions from across the state to honor the achievements of women and women-owned businesses in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction

With heartfelt gratitude, we extend our thanks to every nominee, each attendee, the dedicated RHCA staff, our generous sponsors, and partnering associations across Texas who contributed to making this event a resounding success.

Together, we have celebrated, uplifted, and showcased the remarkable women shaping the future of AEC.

ENGINEERING, AND CONSTRUCTION

AWARD RECIPIENTS Dallas/FW 2024 LUNA AWARDS ARCHITECTURE,

Highlighting the Dallas/Fort Worth recipients, the awards ceremony honored eight extraordinary honorees whose work exemplifies excellence and dedication:

Joesta Construction, LLC. led by Jollyn Mwisongo, was awarded Rising Star A/E/C Firm of the Year, recognized for their innovation and emerging influence in the industry.

HILDA RODRIGUEZ Architecture/Planning/Interiors LLC was honored as A/E/C Firm of the Year for its outstanding contributions to quality design and community impact

Red Elephant Design + Architectural Signage by Indu Sanka won Service Firm of the Year, recognized for its excellence and reputation in the AEC service industry

Katrina Keyes with K Strategies received the Lifetime Achievement award, applauded for her years of dedication, mentorship, and leadership in AEC

Haydee Clark with Resilient Freight Solutions was named Business Advocate of the Year, celebrated for her commitment to advocating and supporting other businesses in the field.

Shahad Mohammed from the City of Duncanville won Outstanding Professional of the Year, recognized for her professionalism and impactful work in the public sector.

Kelly Smith with All Tech Electric Texas was honored as Outstanding Executive of the Year, acknowledged for her leadership and vision in the industry.

Alyssa Staats from Polk Mechanical Company LLC received the Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year award, a reflection of her dedication and essential contributions to her team

2024LUNAAWARDS

ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, ANDCONSTRUCTION

The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, and the inspirational words of RHCA CEO John H Martinez and industry leader Yolanda Tafoya encouraged all attendees to continue fostering growth, empowerment, and inclusion in AEC Each honoree shared personal reflections on their journey, inspiring everyone with their resilience, dedication, and commitment to advancing opportunities for women across all levels of the industry.

The 2024 Luna Awards have truly been a landmark series, underscoring the remarkable achievements of women in Texas’s AEC industry. As we close this year’s chapter, we are filled with pride and gratitude for the outstanding community that has made these events possible

To relive the moments from the Dallas/Fort Worth celebration, view the full gallery by clicking the button below

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this remarkable journey Here’s to more celebrations, more achievements, and continued progress in AEC!

See full Gallery