Building Inclusion: From Trainee to Leader at POIC
Adrian smiles as they share their journey of promoting inclusion and breaking barriers for a more diverse industry in the trades. The wall proudly displays their first graduating cohort and all the sticker notes they use to stay on task.
Playing a pivotal role in creating the innovation hub where they now work, Adrian Fontenotβs workspace reflects their grit and vision in an industry they once did not feel a part of. Vibrant sticky notes they authored fill the POIC Construction Pre-Apprenticeshipβs new location in Washington County. The room is brimming with big ideas and bold strategies, as each note is a colorful visual extension of their creativity and ambitionβall to create the best possible space for trainees to learn and grow.
Adrian personifies the spirit of unwavering commitment to progress and innovation that the program they now instruct tries to instill in its trainees. What better instructor than one that they themselves went through? Their experience with POIC is a testament to the transformative power of education, support, and steadfast resolve in reshaping industry norms.
From Student to Leader: Early Days at POIC
Adrian's journey began at POIC's Construction Pre-Apprenticeship program as one of several trainees enlisted in the PAID 12-week program, where their passion for hands-on work and drive to excel quickly made them a standout participant. Beyond acquiring technical skills, Adrian navigated an industry where traditional norms often pose barriers for individuals with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. Their success in the program demonstrated their competence in construction, challenged stereotypes, and inspired inclusivity. Adrian's experience highlights the importance of supportive environments in fostering talent and potential, advocating for a future where embracing diversity is welcomed and all individuals, regardless of identity, can thrive and contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields.
Overcoming Challenges: Breaking Barriers in Construction
βThereβs not one way to do construction. I encourage my students to think outside the box but still have a strong fundation of the basics of construction.β
Adrian faced significant challenges when they started construction, mainly because, historically, itβs a male-dominated field. As a non-binary individual, Adrian initially struggled to find acceptance and a sense of belonging. The environment they entered was not always welcoming to diversity, requiring them to navigate both learning the trade and asserting their identity.
Rather than being deterred by these obstacles, Adrian persevered with unwavering dedication and demonstrated exceptional talent. They focused on honing their skills and actively sought mentorship opportunities, which was crucial to their professional development. Through persistence and hard work, Adrian secured a position at their dream company soon after graduating from their cohort. This accomplishment validated their capabilities and highlighted their resilience in overcoming the barriers they faced early in their career.
Adrian highlights the critical role of persistence and self-acceptance and the transformative impact of seizing opportunities through adversity. Their triumph serves as a beacon, encouraging others to overcome comparable obstacles within industries that lack diversity.
Giving Back: Becoming an Instructor at POIC
Adrian's burgeoning career came full circle when they returned to POIC, this time as an instructor for the newly established Pre-Apprenticeship program in Washington County. This role is not just a job but a mission: to create an inclusive space where individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can thrive and excel in their chosen careers.
Looking Forward: Impact and Inspiration
As Adrian leads the second cohort of the Washington County Pre-Apprenticeship program, their influence endures. Every success story underscores the significance of inclusivity in industries that have historically lacked diversity. Adrian's path serves as a shining example, demonstrating that through perseverance and support, obstacles can be surmounted and aspirations achieved.
Challenges and Progress in 2024 for LGBTQ+ Rights
With Portland Pride celebrated this July, we are reminded of the strides we must take toward equality and acceptance. In 2024, legislative challenges to LGBTQ rights have intensified, with numerous states across the United States proposing or enacting discriminatory laws targeting LGBTQ individuals. These legislative efforts, documented by the ACLU, include measures that restrict transgender youth's access to healthcare and participation in sports, as well as bills aimed at censoring LGBTQ-related content in schools. The ACLU highlights these developments as part of a broader trend undermining civil liberties and equality, emphasizing the urgent need for advocacy and legal defense to protect the rights of LGBTQ individuals against these discriminatory measures. A significant portion of LGBTQ+ Americans (35%) reported that discrimination had a moderate to significant negative impact on their ability to secure employment in the past year. Additionally, approximately 31% indicated adverse effects on their salary, opportunities for promotion, or job retention due to discrimination.
Despite progress in LGBTQ+ rights and workplace equality, the findings reveal persistent barriers that demand urgent attention and action. The statistics underscore the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in employment, including hiring biases, salary disparities, and promotion limitations due to discrimination. These realities highlight the critical need for continued advocacy and policy reforms to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure full inclusion and equity in the workplace. Addressing these issues comprehensively is essential to creating environments where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive professionally without fear of discrimination or unequal treatment.
Recognizing individuals like Adrian who excel in their work despite adversity and celebrating diversity and inclusion will help dismantle harmful stereotypes, paving the way for a more inclusive future.
Adrian's progression from participant to instructor at POIC epitomizes the transformative power of inclusive education and support. Their achievements highlight the role of POIC as a change maker within the construction industry. As we observe Portland Pride, may Adrian's path motivate us to advocate for diversity, foster inclusivity, and work towards a world where everyone can succeed.
