Hammell receives Premier’s Award for Technology
By Adam Freill
Construction Leadership Women in ConstructionPCL Special Projects manager lauded as a visionary leader committed to breaking down barriers for women in construction.
Cheyanne Hammell, winner of the 2023 Premier’s Award for Technology. (Photo courtesy of PCL)
Cheyanne Hammell, PCL Toronto’s special projects manager, has been awarded the 2023 Premier’s Award for Technology. A co-op term at PCL in 2005 transforming ideas into action kickstarted the Mohawk College alumna’s love for building, and a career in construction. Now an advocate and trailblazer for women in construction, Hammell actively encourages women to expand their horizons and explore careers in her industry.
Presented at the Colleges Ontario Higher Education Summit in Toronto, the awards recognize recent and past college graduates from seven categories who have made outstanding social and economic contributions to their local communities, the province, and beyond, and who have made important contributions to Ontario’s postsecondary system.
“Cheyanne’s transformational leadership and dedication to improving inclusion within the industry makes her an incredible role model to emerging students and established professionals alike,” said Marc Pascoli, senior vice-president and district manager, PCL Constructors Canada Inc. “Very well deserved, Cheyanne!“
The recipients, chosen from nominations submitted by Ontario’s 24 public colleges, must demonstrate outstanding achievement related to their college experience and have made a significant contribution to their communities. A graduate of Mohawk’s architectural technology program in 2007, Hammell was inducted into Mohawk’s Alumni of Distinction this past fall in celebration of her professional achievements and dedication to improved diversity in the construction industry.
“The success of these individuals shows us how Ontario’s colleges are producing talented graduates with the knowledge, skills and experience they need to have rewarding careers and drive the growth of our economy,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “Their amazing achievements – from developing electric vehicle maintenance curriculum, to managing the design of a long-term care home that was completed in just thirteen months – are strengthening the workforce in key provincial sectors and making a tangible difference in the lives of Ontarians.”
Growing up, Cheyanne witnessed her mother pursue success as a pilot in a male-dominated industry and become the first female captain in her company to fly a Boeing 757. Her mother’s passion inspired Cheyanne to focus on an exciting career in construction without being deterred by stereotypical gender roles.
The Premier’s Awards for outstanding college graduates honour the important social and economic contribution that graduates make to Ontario and throughout the world. The awards were launched in 1992 and are administered by Colleges Ontario, the advocacy voice for the province’s 24 colleges.
