We recognize the construction industry relies on creativity and problem-solving that can only be fostered through a diverse and inclusive team. At Cornerstone, we have a commitment to promote and encourage diversity, equity and inclusion both in the office and in the field.
We're pleased to have been recognized by the following organizations for our efforts and our impact on the construction industry:
2023 Industry Leadership Award, WA Center of Excellence for advancement of women in the construction trades
2022 Crystal Eagle Leadership Award for Business Development with MWBE firms - awarded by Tabor 100
2022 Community Builder Award from ANCOR Foundation (supporting individuals with disabilities)
2020 Minority Community Engagement Award from the National Association of Minority Contractors
In the Community
Our firm proactively seeks subcontractors and suppliers from diverse backgrounds for every project we undertake. This involves structuring our procurement processes to actively invite bids from small, local, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses. Our aim is to facilitate connections for these enterprises, empowering their growth and success.
In Our Company Culture
We are passionate about creating teams that reflect the communities in which we build. As such, we recruit team members from a variety of industries, upbringings, and backgrounds. This ensures that we are always learning from each other and providing our clients with a well-rounded experience.
What DEI Means to Us
Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is a living commitment, driven by a profound "why." We passionately embrace the power of diversity by fostering inclusive teams that mirror the vibrant cultures of the communities we serve. More than just a principle, diversity is our practice.
At the heart of this commitment lies our why: to break barriers inhibiting the growth of new and disadvantaged businesses within the construction industry. We strive to create the opportunity for these businesses to change lives—not just for themselves, but for their families and employees.
To achieve this, we've innovated a distinct system that actively encourages Small, Local, and Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) to join forces with us on our ventures.
Our approach is centered on community-tailored outreach teams for each project, meticulously addressing the unique needs of the locality. We craft explicit Inclusion Plans, a blueprint for action, ensuring the engagement of disadvantaged and local enterprises, active involvement with community members, and meaningful connections with families and students, especially when constructing educational facilities.
Ready to join forces with us? Complete our Subcontractor Form to connect with Vicki Puckett, our dedicated DEI Director, as we build a more inclusive future together. Join us in creating opportunities and changing lives.
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"Cornerstone General Contractors has changed my life… they have helped my business grow tremendously by teaching me about the bidding and bonding processes. The company is a wonderful example of mentorship, excellence, quality and safety."
— Israel Alvarez, Owner
Washington Best Finishes
Meet Vicki Puckett, Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Previously a school principal for Mercer Island High School, as well as for Northshore and Renton School Districts, Vicki Puckett leads the diversity program for Cornerstone. She develops strategies to ensure that our project build teams and include minority-owned firms, women-owned firms and small businesses. Vicki is dedicated to enabling all businesses within the community to have an equitable opportunity to engage on Cornerstone-built projects.
To contact Vicki, please send an inquiry on our Contact page!
Our Trusted Partner Ecosystem
Over the years, our commitment to DEI has meant that we’ve built a network of partnerships with organizations that support inclusion and equity throughout the region. This has helped us identify ways we can make our business more open to partnerships with MWBE firms and provide mentorship as needed.
We know that it’s our responsibility to support the next generation of contractors and to let others through the doors that have been open to us over the years.
Additional Links
Careers
We are always looking for new team members who are eager to expand their careers in an environment that fosters growth, grit and excellence. Our culture values accountability and accomplishment. We invest in our team and care about one another like family.
Giving Back
Service is at the heart of our role in the communities we serve. With every project, we look for ways to connect with students, families, community members, local businesses and crafts alongside project stakeholders to deliver beyond expectation.