Ascend Seattle provides access to tools and services to accelerate the growth of construction firms. GLY Business Equity Specialist Michelle Connor shares how both participants and sponsors can benefit from this unique cohort-based program.
Since joining GLY in 2019 as a Project Coordinator, Michelle steadily assumed more and more responsibilities, eventually combining her personal interest in DEI with our clients' goals for trade equity. Naturally she signed up for our corporate DEI Committee, where she continues to make a valuable impact. As our Business Equity Specialist, Michelle provides project team guidance and support to achieve MWSBE and apprenticeship utilization goals, develops community engagement initiatives, and maintains ongoing community and industry involvement to deepen relationships within the public sector and ensure current knowledge of local, state, and federal regulation for adhering to contract requirements. When she’s not busy chasing her turbo-charged toddler, she’s dreaming up new book club picks that will either dazzle her coworkers or make them question her taste in literature.
With over 40 years of experience in construction, Tony is a renovation specialist who works closely with our clients to tailor solutions to each project's unique goals and requirements. He's led projects at airports, hospitals, universities, fire stations, and everything in between. Safety is always his top priority, especially in occupied, sensitive spaces where the comfort of patients and staff is paramount.
Sean recently joined GLY after completing two internships which gave him firsthand experience on high-stakes projects in the construction industry. With a degree in Construction Engineering Technology, he brings a solid foundation of technical knowledge and hands-on experience to his role as Project Engineer. In this capacity, he handles key responsibilities in trade management, overseeing work scopes, ensuring quality and safety compliance, and supporting project scheduling and budgeting. A Kirkland native, Sean enjoys spending his free time on Lake Washington, hitting the golf course, or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
With over 20 years of experience spanning construction, retail, and hospitality, Annika has mastered the art of building and maintaining a positive, inclusive work culture that fosters employee well-being and engagement. Holding a BS in Business Administration with an emphasis on Marketing, Management, and Entertainment from the University of Montana, Annika brings a blend of creative problem-solving and innovative strategies to her role at GLY. When not at work, she can be found enjoying the outdoors, attending concerts, or cheering at sporting events. Growing up playing softball and spending five years managing, assisting, and playing on the company coed softball team, Annika knows how to bring people together — both on and off the field. As the youngest of six, her experience with juggling multiple personalities is put to good use in HR! Annika is also a proud supporter of Sawhorse Revolution, the AGC Education Foundation, and JDRF Beat the Bridge.
With a 30+ year career in the construction industry, Steven is an Experienced Senior Estimator known for his expertise in Value Engineering, Integrated Project Delivery, Project Engineering, CPM Scheduling, and Constructability. Holding a Master of Engineering in Construction Management and Management Information Systems from the University of British Columbia, as well as an MBA from the University of Singapore and a Bachelor's degree in Building Construction from Shanghai Jiaotong University, Steven brings a wealth of global knowledge to every project. Outside of work, Steven is passionate about staying active and enjoys hiking, jogging, cycling, and other outdoor activities. He’s also training in Filipino martial arts, focusing on Arnis, and is preparing for his black belt test — a journey that combines physical skill with cultural heritage. He is dedicated to promoting human health and wellness, with a personal interest in biology and neuroscience, particularly in areas like weight management and mental well-being. A Seattle resident for over 22 years, Steven roots for the Seattle Seahawks and cherishes time with his wife and teenage daughter.