SUPPORTING DIVERSE BUSINESSES

At STO Building Group, we understand the importance of a collaborative team and are committed to building a more diverse and inclusive workforce in our offices, on our jobsites, and in our partnerships. Over the last year, STOBG’s Diversity & Inclusion Steering Committee (DISC) has continued to drive this change within our organization, while our local leaders focus on developing innovative ways to engage, mentor, and partner with minorityowned businesses within their communities. Here are some of the highlights:

“Having a room full of people from diverse backgrounds broadens the perspective of how to approach any situation. Diversity of thought naturally leads to innovation, bringing more creativity and better decision-making.”

Ajax Building Company

To maximize the opportunities for minority-, women-, and disadvantaged-owned business enterprises (MWDBEs) on their projects, Ajax focuses on developing mutually beneficial business relationships with diverse organizations, subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors through their Mentor/Protégé program. This program offers up-and-coming MWDBEs the opportunity to gain hands-on experience managing a large project, which they can use to build their resumes for future project opportunities.

> Learn more about Ajax’s supplier diversity efforts here.

Layton Construction

This year, Layton’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team launched its Trade Partner Equity Program (TPEP) with the goal of increasing the diversity and strength of the company’s trade partners. Designed to build trust, eliminate barriers, and ultimately support the growth of MWDBEs, the TPEP is a seven-month program that includes monthly training sessions, mentorship, technical assistance, workshops, and intentional touchpoints. This program will ultimately result in a much larger, more diverse pool of quality trade partners prepared to bid on contracts.

> Learn more about Layton’s TPEP here.

Lf Driscoll

In 2018, LFD launched the Driscoll Diversity and Inclusion Council (DDIC), a group of diverse contractors, diverse Chambers of Commerce, supplier and subcontractor advocate groups, a state government representative, and senior executives of LF Driscoll. The council aims to drive a cultural shift within the industry by removing the traditional barriers that prevent participation and growth for diverse companies within construction.

> Learn more about the DDIC here.

—Mafe Alizo, Regional MWDBE Manager, Structure Tone

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