MWIS CELEBRATES 25 YEARS
for their performance , which includes nearly 100 % contract completion on $ 331 million in awarded construction contracts .
“ We are able to perpetuate these programs because of outcomes like these , and in the process , sustain , grow , and empower our company to do more and do more in more places ,” Merriwether said .
She acknowledged the importance of MWIS ’ community development financial institutions ( CDFI ) partners , which includes Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment ( PACE ), Pacific Coast Regional ( PCR ), and Access Plus , as well as their broker and surety partners .
“ We ’ ve shown what ’ s possible through the power of our shared intentions ,” Merriwether said .
Gene Hale , chairman of the Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce ( GLAAACC ) and president of G & C Corporation , one of the largest minority-owned construction equipment supply companies in the nation , commended Merriwether on MWIS ’ longevity and her personal business acumen .
“ For any company to survive for 25 years means you have done something many other companies have not done , which is create opportunities for people and give back to your community ,” Hale said . “ When you ’ re looking for role models , look to Ingrid . She is one of the most intelligent and smartest businesspersons I ’ ve ever met .”
The celebration continued with accolades and testimonials of appreciation from MWIS partners and clients . three years because of MWIS ’ bonding program ,” said Keith Compton , director of capacity building and integration , at LA Metro . “ I ’ m looking forward to more years of working with this program and helping more small businesses work on Metro contracts .”
Ann D ’ Amato , the CEO of 3-D Networks , a MWIS partner , described Merriwether as a champion . “ She will fight the fight with you every step of the way ,” D ’ Amato said . “ When they say ‘ no ,’ she says ‘ go .’ She knows how to get to the end result .”
MWIS client Bianca Vobecky , president of Vobecky Enterprises , participated in one of MWIS ’ s first bonding classes over 17 years ago . Through the ups and downs of her business , Vobecky said she could always count on MWIS to answer questions and provide support .
“ Every time I had a bonding or a small business question , I knew I could call MWIS , and they would have the answer . They always helped me , no matter what ,” Vobecky said . “ I know I ’ m one of thousands of stories . We ’ d like to thank you so much for what you do and for always being there for us , because as a small business , it ’ s priceless .”
Delgadillo concluded the evening with praise for Merriwether and a toast to the MWIS team .
“ If you want to be successful in getting work done in government , tenacity wins . One of the things that Ingrid has always done is never give up ,” Delgadillo said . “ Here ’ s to Merriwether & Williams Insurance Services for a fantastic , courageous and tenacious 25 years .”
A video recap of the event can be viewed online .
“ There are over $ 15 million worth of contracts that have gone to small businesses in the last
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