RJ Ramos

Randy Ramos

Founded in 2006 by Randy Ramos, whose story began as the first U.S.-born child of parents who immigrated from Guadalajara, Mexico, RJ Ramos grew from small residential remodeling projects into one of Portland’s oldest largest general and electrical contractors working on Landmark projects such as the Portland Building, Portland International Airport TCORE project, and the Portland Water Bureau Filtration Plant, Randy built his company on perseverance, skill, and an unwavering commitment to community. RJ Ramos Family operated business that values Accountability, Motivation, Organizational Excellence, and Safety guide every decision and every project. These values show up in support and mentor other COBID firms into their projects not just as subcontractors, but as true partners.

Allen Construction Management NW 

Laurie Allen

Allen Construction Management NW is a woman owned firm providing construction management, civil engineering, project controls, and inspection services across the Northwest. Known for their technical expertise and commitment to excellence, ACMS NW has earned a reputation for getting projects done right the first time while building trust with clients and communities. What sets them apart is how they combine industry leadership with equity in action. Sixty five percent of their workforce are women or people of color, and they actively mentor and promote from within, creating pathways for growth and leadership in an industry where opportunities are limited. Beyond their projects, ACMS NW gives back through community involvement, volunteerism, and support for programs that strengthen opportunity and inclusion. They are being recognized as Woman Owned Business of the Year for excelling in their field, championing inclusion, and proving that innovation and equity can rise together.

Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Oregon (PACCO)

The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Oregon is being recognized for its powerful commitment to advancing economic resilience, empowerment, and generational wealth for Filipino and underserved communities across Oregon. PACCO’s vision is to create a diverse economy where every community member has the opportunity to thrive. Through scholarships, leadership training, and board service opportunities, PACCO invests in the next generation of leaders. Their Technical Assistance Program provides underrepresented small businesses with technical assistance to support their growth. Since 2020, PACCO has distributed over a million dollars in grants and assistance, helping hundreds of BIPOC business owners strengthen their operations and expand their reach. Beyond the numbers, their work builds connection, fosters collaboration, and creates pathways to lasting opportunity.

Mel Jones

Mel Jones has gone above and beyond for our community. He listens, he shows up, and he is never afraid to jump in and help. Not only is he the Director for Inclusion at Hoffman Construction, he also is the chair of Constructing Hope and the Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs. His dedication to his work speaks volumes about his commitment to building pathways for small businesses and underrepresented business and apprentices. Tireless in his service, Mel has dedicated his career to creating a more inclusive and thriving business community. With more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry, what sets Mel apart is not only his professional expertise but also his personal dedication. He is always ready to listen, help solve problems, and is someone the community knows they can rely on.

Port of Portland (Mentor-Protégé Program)

The Port of Portland has always been a champion of equity and inclusion, and their Mentor Protégé Program stands as one of the best in the nation. This program prepares small business owners in the built environment to do work not only at the Port, but with other public agencies as well. It provides care, professional guidance, and steady support that helps businesses succeed even in their most vulnerable moments. This work is led by Program Manager Irene Appel, whose smart, driven, and tireless leadership ensures the program makes a lasting difference. She puts countless hours into getting it right, and the results speak volumes. At the recent grand opening of PDX NEXT, many of the contractors who contributed to this landmark project were current or past participants of the Mentor Protégé Program, a testament to the program’s impact and reach. For their leadership, their commitment, and their dedication to growing opportunity for small businesses, we are proud to present the Public Agency Excellence Award to the Port of Portland.

JE Dunn

JE Dunn Construction is being recognized for their outstanding commitment as a corporate partner. Beyond delivering impressive projects, they lead with heart, vision, and a strong commitment to the communities they serve. Their community engagement work, led by Amy Winterowd, has made a meaningful difference by building connections, fostering partnerships, and creating opportunities that extend far beyond the job site. Their dedication to supporting small businesses, guided by Martell Dyles, ensures that more firms have a seat at the table and the tools to grow. Through their Minority Contractor Development Program, JE Dunn has helped open doors, strengthen capacity, and champion equity in construction. Their leadership shows that true success is measured not just in buildings completed, but in lives impacted. For their partnership, their passion, and their unwavering support of small businesses and community growth, we are proud to present the Corporate Partner Ovation Award to JE Dunn Construction