2021 ABC Illinois Annual Review - Flipbook - Page 35
MEET THE JUDGES
MICHAELANN AGORANOS
VP REFRESH CONSTRUCTION
Michaelann is a construction industry professional with over 25 years of
experience in Project Management and Program Management, building and
leading construction and design teams with global restaurant and retail
companies. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies from the
University of Illinois at Chicago and an MBA from the University of Phoenix.
Michaelann founded and co-owned a Leadership Development and Talent
Management company working specifically within the AEC industries to develop
new leaders and advance existing leadership capabilities. She has been a member
of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) since 2014 and
Board member with the Chicago Metro Chapter of NAWIC since 2016.
BRAIN BRACE
GridGopher.com
Brian Brace is a licensed electrician and Electrical Inspector in the State of Illinois.
He has been in the industry for 30 years. He is a member of the International
Association of Electrical Inspectors and International Code Counsel. He sits on the
Electrical Board for the Village of Mokena, IL.
His career has been in all facets of the electrical industry from low voltage,
residential, commercial, industrial and underground utility construction.
Brian is the founder and CEO of Grid Gopher which is a real-time, skilled labor
platform designed to help all workers and contractors across all trades.
PEGGY NEWQUIST
CONSTRUCTING OPPORTUNITY, LLC
Peggy Newquist brings 30 years of experience in the industry, holds a BS in
Construction Engineering, and a MS in Construction Management. Over the span
of her career she has created Leadership Development Programs, created
mentoring programs and led resource networks within the industry. Currently a
member of the Purdue University, Construction Engineering Division Industry
Advisory Committee, she was awarded the PUCEM Distinguished Alumni Award in
2019. She holds several positions with NAWIC (National Association of Women in
Construction): serving as a Director of the Board of the Chicago Metro chapter, past
National Chair for the Professional Development & Education Committee, and
National Secretary for the NAWIC Education Foundation (NEF).
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