(Washington, DC) The Department of Public Works announced today the names of women it is recognizing in honor of Women’s History Month. The women occupy both traditional and non-traditional positions in DPW’s operations programs: Solid Waste Management Administration; Parking Enforcement Management Administration and Fleet Management Administration.
“The Department of Public Works is a stronger, more viable organization because of the many talented women who work here on behalf of District residents,” said DPW Acting Director Christopher J. Shorter. “The women we are honoring during Women’s History Month have set a high standard for achievement, dedication and resilience. They distinguished themselves throughout their careers, and I am proud to work alongside them.”
2016 Women's History Month Honorees
Solid Waste Management Administration
Debra Armstrong – Solid Waste Inspector, Solid Waste Education and Enforcement Program (SWEEP) – Has worked successfully in a predominant male environment for more than 15 years
Casandra Ball – Operations Manager, Street and Alley Cleaning Division – Supervises the staff that removes graffiti, abates nuisance properties and maintains public space properties
Wilma Barber – Heavy Landscape Equipment Operator, Street and Alley Cleaning Division – First woman to operate a tractor for DPW
Sonya Chance – Lead Solid Waste Inspector, Solid Waste Education and Enforcement Program (SWEEP) – Her success is the product of exceeding expectations of herself.
Sheila Colclough – Transfer Operations Manager, Solid Waste Disposal Division (Benning Road Transfer Station) – First woman manager in Solid Waste Disposal Division
Yolanda Hood – Solid Waste Inspector, Solid Waste Education and Enforcement Program (SWEEP) – Handles tough situations with dignity and grace, earning the respect of residents, businesses and government officials
Jacqueline Pickeral – Sanitation Worker, Street and Alley Cleaning Division – “I don't let people discourage me, I'm self-motivated and I never quit.”
Warnique C. West – Sanitation Foreman, Street and Alley Cleaning Division – Proven skills in managing street cleaning and leaf collection teams, the Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program in DPW, and snow removal operations
Fleet Management Administration
Irene V. Jordan – Direct Maintenance and Repair Manager, Light Equipment Shop – Possesses multiple Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications in School Bus, Medium Heavy Trucks and Automotive, Bendix certified heavy duty air brake technician, CNG technician
Kari Raynor – Heavy Equipment Technician – Her motto: “Get the job done right.”
Playdese Weaver – Program Assistant, Fuel Division – Keeps the entire government “moving” as she provides support to fuel District government vehicles and other equipment
Marsha Young – Mechanic Assistant intern with the LEAP program – “I tell women to speak up--do not be afraid, explore and find where your passion lies.”
Parking Enforcement Management Administration
Ruby Abney – Parking Enforcement Officer, Parking Control Division – Being a woman in this role has made her more alert to her environment
Yvonne Boston – Supervisory Administrative Service Specialist, Facility Management Division – Has been in construction more than 30 years and must assert herself within her role before she and contractors can continue with their work
Ilene Godwin – Lot Attendant, Blue Plains Impoundment Lot – Seasoned DPW employee who specializes in researching stolen vehicles
Madelyn Mitchell – Customer Service Supervisor, Customer Service Division – Uses her ability to function under pressure, solve problems, nurture, organize, empower, and cultivate new skills to perform her duties
Juliette Redd – Program Analyst, Towing/Booting Division – Being a woman gives her a range of perspectives that are unique within a predominately male environment
Throughout March, DPW’s communications channels will continue to carry photos, profiles and quotes from these exceptional women. Go to:
Social Media:
DPW Twitter: @DCDPW
DPW Facebook: DPW on Facebook