Mission
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Ways you can help...
Contribute Funds - in addition to purchasing items apprentices need to be successful, financial contributions allow us to be more flexible support, including assisting with housing, transportation, child care and other costs that create barriers for apprentices while they are not earning wages.
Apply to Volunteer - it takes a community to make a difference in peoples lives - consider joining us in this work.
Donate Resources - we accept any new or gently used items that could help an apprentice be successful - work clothes, boots, tools, and even items to offset family costs, like diapers.
Advocate for Apprentices - help us elevate the needs of apprentices, just like other students working on postsecondary education attainment, and empower apprentices to successfully attain a life-long, high paying, career.
Promote State Registered Apprenticeship - apprenticeship starts with a job. This creates the greatest opportunity for Washingtonians to earn while they learn and become highly trained in a career. Washington state's registered apprenticeships meet higher standards than even Federally Registered apprenticeship programs. We should be making sure all Washingtonians, regardless of their background, have equitable access to this life-changing opportunity.
Apply to Volunteer - it takes a community to make a difference in peoples lives - consider joining us in this work.
Donate Resources - we accept any new or gently used items that could help an apprentice be successful - work clothes, boots, tools, and even items to offset family costs, like diapers.
Advocate for Apprentices - help us elevate the needs of apprentices, just like other students working on postsecondary education attainment, and empower apprentices to successfully attain a life-long, high paying, career.
Promote State Registered Apprenticeship - apprenticeship starts with a job. This creates the greatest opportunity for Washingtonians to earn while they learn and become highly trained in a career. Washington state's registered apprenticeships meet higher standards than even Federally Registered apprenticeship programs. We should be making sure all Washingtonians, regardless of their background, have equitable access to this life-changing opportunity.
Our Team
Executive Director
Megan Pearson
Megan Pearson is a dedicated leader in workforce development, committed to creating pathways for family-wage careers and ensuring equitable access to opportunities. As the Executive Director of BuildUp, Megan drives initiatives that empower individuals to thrive in sustainable careers, particularly in industries where access to support services and barrier removal is crucial.
Previously, as the Strategic Partnership Director at ANEW, Megan played a pivotal role in fostering collaborations that expanded access to apprenticeship programs and workforce training, particularly for underrepresented communities. With a deep passion for social equity and economic mobility, Megan continues to advocate for systems that remove barriers and create lasting opportunities for all.
Previously, as the Strategic Partnership Director at ANEW, Megan played a pivotal role in fostering collaborations that expanded access to apprenticeship programs and workforce training, particularly for underrepresented communities. With a deep passion for social equity and economic mobility, Megan continues to advocate for systems that remove barriers and create lasting opportunities for all.
Board of Directors
Heather Kurtenbach, Board President
Executive Secretary, Washington State Building Trades
Executive Secretary, Washington State Building Trades
Heather Kurtenbach began her career in the construction industry as an ironworker in 2005, where she gained valuable hands-on experience in the field. Over the years, she developed her skills and knowledge in various aspects of construction. In 2019, she took on a new challenge when she was appointed as the Political Director of Iron Workers L 86, a role that allowed her to advocate for workers’ rights and engage with policymakers on issues affecting the construction workforce.
During her tenure as Political Director, Heather worked diligently to build relationships with key stakeholders and lead initiatives that supported labor interests. Her effective leadership and dedication to the cause did not go unnoticed, and in October 2024, she was appointed as the Executive Secretary of the Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council. In this esteemed position, she aims to further promote the interests of the construction trades and enhance the livelihood of workers across the state.
During her tenure as Political Director, Heather worked diligently to build relationships with key stakeholders and lead initiatives that supported labor interests. Her effective leadership and dedication to the cause did not go unnoticed, and in October 2024, she was appointed as the Executive Secretary of the Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council. In this esteemed position, she aims to further promote the interests of the construction trades and enhance the livelihood of workers across the state.
Dr. Erin Frasier, Board Vice President
Assistant Executive Secretary, Washington State Building Trades
Assistant Executive Secretary, Washington State Building Trades
With over 15 years of experience in Washington’s workforce development system, Erin Frasier is dedicated to advancing social and economic justice through innovative workforce initiatives. In her role with the State Building Trades, Erin focuses on the impact of policies for construction workers, including transportation infrastructure, public works, the clean energy workforce, and apprenticeship. She is also committed to holistically supporting workers’ needs, including access to childcare.
Erin's impactful work at Grays Harbor College and the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges has forged strong partnerships with organized labor, community organizations, businesses, economic development councils, and various state and federal agencies. Her extensive experience in policy development has led to her involvement in numerous statewide initiatives, highlighting her commitment to collaborative solutions.
A respected leader, Erin has participated in several key groups, including the Governor’s Poverty Reduction Work Group, Washington’s Interagency Council on Homelessness, and the National Skills Coalition’s Safety Net and Skills Policy Advisory Panel. She has also served on the Legislative-Executive WorkFirst Poverty Reduction Oversight Task Force and the Pacific County Economic Development Council.
Erin holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Portland State University and earned her Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University. Her passion for empowering individuals, families and communities through workforce development continues to drive her passion and advocacy.
Erin's impactful work at Grays Harbor College and the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges has forged strong partnerships with organized labor, community organizations, businesses, economic development councils, and various state and federal agencies. Her extensive experience in policy development has led to her involvement in numerous statewide initiatives, highlighting her commitment to collaborative solutions.
A respected leader, Erin has participated in several key groups, including the Governor’s Poverty Reduction Work Group, Washington’s Interagency Council on Homelessness, and the National Skills Coalition’s Safety Net and Skills Policy Advisory Panel. She has also served on the Legislative-Executive WorkFirst Poverty Reduction Oversight Task Force and the Pacific County Economic Development Council.
Erin holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Portland State University and earned her Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University. Her passion for empowering individuals, families and communities through workforce development continues to drive her passion and advocacy.
Andrea Ornelas, Board Secretary
Political Director, Laborers Local 242
Political Director, Laborers Local 242
Andrea Ornelas is a dedicated wife and mother of five and currently serves as the Assistant Political Director for LIUNA Local 242. She began her career in construction in 2016 after graduating from the ANEW program and has since become a passionate advocate for workers and opportunities in the trades.
Andrea now serves on the Executive Board of LIUNA 242, participates on multiple Career and Technical Education (CTE) boards, and is actively involved in community service committees throughout the region. Her work focuses on ensuring students and anyone interested in the trades have access to the information and opportunities they need to succeed. Andrea’s leadership and commitment continue to inspire those around her and strengthen pathways into union careers.
Andrea now serves on the Executive Board of LIUNA 242, participates on multiple Career and Technical Education (CTE) boards, and is actively involved in community service committees throughout the region. Her work focuses on ensuring students and anyone interested in the trades have access to the information and opportunities they need to succeed. Andrea’s leadership and commitment continue to inspire those around her and strengthen pathways into union careers.
Cynthia Grant, Board Treasurer
PLA/CWA Administrator, IUPAT District Council 5
PLA/CWA Administrator, IUPAT District Council 5
Cynthia Grant is a dedicated Journeyman Painter and passionate advocate for workers’ rights, currently serving as a Labor Representative for the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT). With a deep-rooted commitment to empowering her peers, Cynthia has become a driving force in advancing equity and solidarity within the labor movement.
As the founder and chair of the IUPAT DC5 Seattle Women’s Committee, she champions initiatives to uplift and mentor women in the trades, fostering inclusive spaces where voices are heard, and opportunities thrive. Cynthia serves as a local union delegate, leverages her role as Sergeant at Arms for the Seattle Building Trades, and steers financial strategy as Treasurer of BuildUp, a nonprofit dedicated to workforce development and community engagement.
Cynthia’s work is fueled by her belief in collective action and the transformative power of organized labor.
As the founder and chair of the IUPAT DC5 Seattle Women’s Committee, she champions initiatives to uplift and mentor women in the trades, fostering inclusive spaces where voices are heard, and opportunities thrive. Cynthia serves as a local union delegate, leverages her role as Sergeant at Arms for the Seattle Building Trades, and steers financial strategy as Treasurer of BuildUp, a nonprofit dedicated to workforce development and community engagement.
Cynthia’s work is fueled by her belief in collective action and the transformative power of organized labor.
Charles Adkins
Legislative Policy Analyst, The Tulalip Tribes
Legislative Policy Analyst, The Tulalip Tribes
“As an advocate and proud enrolled member of the Yurok Tribe, Charles focuses on local and state advocacy. He currently works as a Legislative Policy Analyst for the Tulalip Tribes focusing on Education, Housing, and Indian Child Welfare. Charles also serves as an elected school board member for the Everett School District. From his childhood on the Yurok reservation, he was sent to one of the remaining Indian Boarding Schools where his experiences helped inform his fight for social and economic justice. His father, a decorated combat veteran from Afghanistan, suffered from PTSD which eventually led to Charles leaving home as a teenager and soon finding himself homeless throughout his time in High School. Charles’ passion to help others like himself saw him earn a degree and rise to prominence in the political community. His experience encompasses roles such as Health Policy Director for the Children's Alliance, Vice President of Federal Affairs for Washington Students Association, Director of Legislative Affairs for Students of the Evergreen State College and as a contract lobbyist. He currently is the Councilmember representing Tribal Nations on the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency’s Advisory Council, he also is the Youth Representative on the State Advisory Council on Homelessness and serves as the Vice-Chair for the City of Everett's Planning Commission, and serves on several boards including the Children’s Campaign Fund and previously served on the board of the Washington Student Association. One of his proudest career achievements is authoring and successfully lobbying for the passage of Senate Bill 5800 which launched a pilot program in which colleges provide additional assistance for homeless and food insecure students. Charles holds a degree in Tribal Administration and resides in Everett, Washington.”
Mary Wysocki
Legislative Assistant
Legislative Assistant
Mary Wysocki is a dedicated public health advocate and nonprofit leader with over 18 years of experience in policy development, government relations, nonprofit management, and grant administration. Passionate about improving community health and social well-being, she has played a key role in various organizations dedicated to addressing critical public health and housing issues. She is currently a Legislative Assistant in the Washington State House of Representatives.
Mary currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the Sound Foundation Public Health (SFPH), where she partners with the Snohomish County Health District to fund and support initiatives that promote a healthier community. She is also a Board Member of Housing Hope East County, working to provide affordable housing and services that combat homelessness and poverty among families in Snohomish County. Additionally, she leads as the Chair of the Darrington Intervention Prevention Community Coalition (DIPCC), a grassroots organization focused on preventing youth substance abuse and underage drinking.
Mary’s dedication to advocacy extends to her past volunteer work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) from 2012 to 2017, where she represented the best interests of children in abuse and neglect cases. Working alongside child welfare professionals and judges in Snohomish County Superior and Family Drug Courts, she played a crucial role in ensuring children were placed in safe and permanent homes.
Mary currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the Sound Foundation Public Health (SFPH), where she partners with the Snohomish County Health District to fund and support initiatives that promote a healthier community. She is also a Board Member of Housing Hope East County, working to provide affordable housing and services that combat homelessness and poverty among families in Snohomish County. Additionally, she leads as the Chair of the Darrington Intervention Prevention Community Coalition (DIPCC), a grassroots organization focused on preventing youth substance abuse and underage drinking.
Mary’s dedication to advocacy extends to her past volunteer work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) from 2012 to 2017, where she represented the best interests of children in abuse and neglect cases. Working alongside child welfare professionals and judges in Snohomish County Superior and Family Drug Courts, she played a crucial role in ensuring children were placed in safe and permanent homes.
Marianna Hyke, Political Coordinator
Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
Marianna Hyke is a seasoned political coordinator and policy advocate with over a decade of experience championing workforce development, labor rights, and equitable training opportunities and proud member of Local 196 – Pile Driver & Divers. As the Political Coordinator for the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters (WSRCC), she drives legislative advocacy, shapes pro-worker policies, and builds strategic coalitions with elected officials, workforce agencies, and community stakeholders. Marianna collaborates with lobbyists to draft and negotiate legislation, represents labor interests in government forums, and manages Political Action Committee (PAC) contributions to support worker-friendly candidates and initiatives. Her efforts strengthen labor protections, expand apprenticeship programs, and secure leadership roles for union members on workforce and economic development boards.
Previously, as the Pre-Apprenticeship & Outreach/Retention Coordinator for the Northwest Carpenters Institute (NWCI), Marianna developed and grew pre-apprenticeship programs, securing multi-million-dollar grants to fund training for underrepresented communities. She designed recruitment and retention strategies, shaped industry-aligned curricula, and ensured compliance with state and federal workforce standards, significantly increasing apprenticeship enrollment and supporting marginalized workers.
Beyond her professional roles, Marianna is a committed leader in workforce and economic development, serving on advisory boards and steering committees, including the Regional Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways (RPAC) Board of Directors, LEAP in Pierce County (Vice President), and the Washington State Apprenticeship Training Council’s Childcare Taskforce (Chair). She has also contributed to the Women Empower Conference, Washington Women in the Trades, and advisory boards for multiple school districts and the newly elected Pierce County Democratic Chair.
A tireless advocate for economic mobility and fair labor standards, Marianna continues to shape impactful policy at local, state, and federal levels, ensuring workers have access to apprenticeships, fair wages, and sustainable career pathways.
Previously, as the Pre-Apprenticeship & Outreach/Retention Coordinator for the Northwest Carpenters Institute (NWCI), Marianna developed and grew pre-apprenticeship programs, securing multi-million-dollar grants to fund training for underrepresented communities. She designed recruitment and retention strategies, shaped industry-aligned curricula, and ensured compliance with state and federal workforce standards, significantly increasing apprenticeship enrollment and supporting marginalized workers.
Beyond her professional roles, Marianna is a committed leader in workforce and economic development, serving on advisory boards and steering committees, including the Regional Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways (RPAC) Board of Directors, LEAP in Pierce County (Vice President), and the Washington State Apprenticeship Training Council’s Childcare Taskforce (Chair). She has also contributed to the Women Empower Conference, Washington Women in the Trades, and advisory boards for multiple school districts and the newly elected Pierce County Democratic Chair.
A tireless advocate for economic mobility and fair labor standards, Marianna continues to shape impactful policy at local, state, and federal levels, ensuring workers have access to apprenticeships, fair wages, and sustainable career pathways.
Yvonne Harry
Iron Workers Local 86
Iron Workers Local 86
Yvonne Harry began her journey in the trades through the TRAC pre-apprenticeship program in 2005 and proudly joined the Ironworkers in 2006—a decision that transformed her life.
Yvonne quickly found her footing in the field, working on major construction projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. Over the years, she rose through the ranks, earning leadership roles while continuing to work hands-on as a foreman and general foreman.
She is the original founder of the Local 86 Ironworkers Women’s Committee, a pioneering effort that remains active and successful today. Under her leadership and example, the committee inspired and supported the formation of diversity committees in multiple locals across the country.
Yvonne is a respected and trusted leader within her local. She currently serves as an elected member of the Executive Board and holds the position of Recording Secretary. She continues to work towards putting others to work and has become a business owner under the Ironworkers education that's offered for their members.
A passionate advocate for the trades, Yvonne has encouraged and guided many, including family members and friends into construction careers. Her husband is also an Ironworker, and her daughter is completing her apprenticeship with the IBEW.
Yvonne is deeply committed to giving back. She volunteers countless hours in the community, representing her union and working to ensure others have the same life-changing opportunities that the Ironworkers have given her.
Yvonne quickly found her footing in the field, working on major construction projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. Over the years, she rose through the ranks, earning leadership roles while continuing to work hands-on as a foreman and general foreman.
She is the original founder of the Local 86 Ironworkers Women’s Committee, a pioneering effort that remains active and successful today. Under her leadership and example, the committee inspired and supported the formation of diversity committees in multiple locals across the country.
Yvonne is a respected and trusted leader within her local. She currently serves as an elected member of the Executive Board and holds the position of Recording Secretary. She continues to work towards putting others to work and has become a business owner under the Ironworkers education that's offered for their members.
A passionate advocate for the trades, Yvonne has encouraged and guided many, including family members and friends into construction careers. Her husband is also an Ironworker, and her daughter is completing her apprenticeship with the IBEW.
Yvonne is deeply committed to giving back. She volunteers countless hours in the community, representing her union and working to ensure others have the same life-changing opportunities that the Ironworkers have given her.
Ray Dumas
OPCMIA Local 528, Business Agent, Trustee and Political Officer
OPCMIA Local 528, Business Agent, Trustee and Political Officer
Ray Dumas began his career in the plastering trade in 2011 following a transformative period in his life. After completing Plasterers four year apprenticeship program, he quickly advanced to the role of foreman, leading teams on numerous plastering and fireproofing projects across Washington State. His dedication to the craft and commitment to his fellow workers earned him leadership roles within OPCMIA Local 528, where he now serves as Business Agent, Vice President, Trustee, as well as the Local’s Political Officer.
Ray is passionate about advocating for workers’ rights and building stronger communities through labor representation. He lives in Tacoma, Washington, and enjoys bass fishing and spending time with his wife and two daughters.
Ray is passionate about advocating for workers’ rights and building stronger communities through labor representation. He lives in Tacoma, Washington, and enjoys bass fishing and spending time with his wife and two daughters.
Peter Guzman
Labor and Industries Apprenticeship Program Manager - Retired
Labor and Industries Apprenticeship Program Manager - Retired
Peter Guzman was previously with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) since June 2021. He held positions at L&I as the Grants Manager, Acting Prevailing Wage Manager/Industrial Statistician, and as the Apprenticeship Program Manager in the Apprenticeship Division.
Peter managed Washington State’s Registered Apprenticeship system and was responsible for administering the rules and policies of the Washington State Apprenticeship & Training Council for federal and state purposes.
Formerly, Peter was at the Washington State Board for Community & Technical Colleges, City of Tacoma and Rebound, AFL-CIO. His portfolio for the last 30 years includes assisting governmental agencies, employers, labor, K-12, community & technical colleges, registered apprenticeship training programs, and workforce stakeholders advance registered apprenticeship as a workforce training modality that develops Washington’s skilled workforce.
Peter is committed to developing and sustaining registered apprenticeship and the public workforce development ecosystem in meeting Washington’s skilled workforce needs.
Born and raised in Santa Barbara, California, Peter studied Political Science at Westmont College, and Law at the Santa Barbara College of Law, both in California.
Peter managed Washington State’s Registered Apprenticeship system and was responsible for administering the rules and policies of the Washington State Apprenticeship & Training Council for federal and state purposes.
Formerly, Peter was at the Washington State Board for Community & Technical Colleges, City of Tacoma and Rebound, AFL-CIO. His portfolio for the last 30 years includes assisting governmental agencies, employers, labor, K-12, community & technical colleges, registered apprenticeship training programs, and workforce stakeholders advance registered apprenticeship as a workforce training modality that develops Washington’s skilled workforce.
Peter is committed to developing and sustaining registered apprenticeship and the public workforce development ecosystem in meeting Washington’s skilled workforce needs.
Born and raised in Santa Barbara, California, Peter studied Political Science at Westmont College, and Law at the Santa Barbara College of Law, both in California.