Each month, Trades Women of Alaska honors the achievements of women who are breaking barriers and inspiring others in the trades. We highlight their hard work, dedication, and impact on their communities.
Know someone who deserves to be recognized? Nominate a tradeswoman who is making a difference and help us celebrate the power of women in Alaska’s workforce.
Donna Riley - August 2025
Donna Riley Nominated by Tracy Smith for August 2025 Woman of the Month
"For 22 years, Donna Riley has been a proud and steadfast member of LIUNA Public Employees Local 71. Known for her energy both on and off the clock, Donna is an avid runner who brings that same drive and endurance into every part of her life.
She is hardworking, fiercely dedicated to her family, her job, and her union, and she never hesitates to step up when there’s a need. Whether it’s volunteering her time or actively recruiting new members, Donna leads by example, showing what solidarity in action really looks like.
Donna embodies the very best of what it means to be a woman in the trades: strong, committed, and inspiring. It is an honor to recognize her and to work alongside her."
~ Tracy Smith
Congratulations, Donna, for being the August Woman of the Month!
Davie Kinden - April 2025
Davie Kinden was nominated by Alexis Trombley for April’s women of the month
Davie Kinden is a member of Fairbanks local 942. Where she is an active member on the E board, a teacher within the Fairbanks training school and the laborers steward when working on the slope.
“Davie is not only dedicated to the union when at home but she takes her dedication with her to work. I had the pleasure of working with Davie this past winter and couldn’t help but notice what a great role model she is for not only all apprentices but for all journey-men and women in and out of the field. Not only is it rare to come across other women in the field but it’s even harder to come across someone who is strong, hard working independent and dedicated such as Davie. Not only is she a great co worker but I feel as if I can call her a friend I can lean on. I look forward to working with you more! ”
Congratulations Davie on becoming Aprils women of the month!
Jenn Sheffrey - March 2025
Celebrating March Woman of the Month: Jenn Sheffrey, nominated by Tracy Smith.
Here is what Tracy said about Jenn:
"I am honored to nominate Jenn Sheffrey for the Tradeswomen of Alaska Woman of the Month for March. She’s only been with Local 71 for a little over a year, but in that time, she’s stepped up in a big way. She took on the role of shop steward, has been one of our top volunteers, and constantly pushes her coworkers to get more involved.
Jenn works as an equipment operator at Anchorage International, one of only three women in that role. Every day, she goes toe-to-toe with the guys, proving she can hold her own with skill and grit. She’s tough, she’s determined, and she’s got the respect of the people around her. On top of that, she’s got a big heart, a sharp sense of humor, and she’s always got your back.
Jenn represents exactly what Tradeswomen of Alaska is all about—strong, hardworking women who aren’t afraid to stand up, speak out, and do the work. She’s a solid union sister and an excellent choice for this recognition."
Congratulations, Jenn! We are very proud of the work you do and grateful for your dedication to supporting Alaska's Trades Women.
AnEva Kimble - February 2025
Celebrating February’s Woman of the Month: AnEva Kimble!
AnEva was nominated by Malia Aperto, who shared just how much of an impact she makes every day:
“AnEva is the definition of a great leader. She shows up with a positive attitude, lifts up those around her, and takes care of her crew. As a TCS, she leads by example—always willing to teach, support, and put in the hard work. She makes the job site a better place for everyone.”
AnEva, your dedication and leadership don’t go unnoticed. You inspire those around you, and we’re so grateful for everything you do.
Congratulation AnEva on becoming January’s woman of the month.
Tracy Smith - January 2025
Tracy Smith was nominated by Jenn Sheffrey for January’s woman of the month.
Tracy works for the Public Employees local 71 as a statewide Office Manager/Dispatcher. She has been in this position for 24.5 years.
“I have nominated Tracy Smith as woman of the month for multiple different reasons. I have been with the Local 71 for over a year now and Tracy has been my go to person every time that I have had any issues or questions or even just needing a hug. Tracy has always been there with a smile on her face and a pep in her step. If she doesn’t have the answer for you, she makes sure that she gets the answer. Even on her busiest days, she will always make time to talk. She is the person on the other end of the phone that can get someone that is upset to end the conversation on a good note. Not to say that the guys there at the Local 71 hall are not capable, but if it wasn’t for Tracy, I feel they would be lost and I know that I would also.
Thank you for making this transition to a new job and a new union so easy and enjoyable. Thank you for bringing me in like Family.”
-Jenn Sheffrey
Congratulation Tracy Smith on becoming January’s woman of the month.
Kim Merriman - December 2024
Kim Merriman was nominated by Alexis Trombley and Malia Aperto for Decembers woman of the month.
Kim started off as an apprentice in 2013 and worked her way to up to a journeymen. During her time with the laborers she has been apart of the Spill response crew for the pipeline, a Dirt hand on multiple different projects, and an overall general laborer. Currently, she flags.
“I, Alexis Trombley accompanied by Malia Aperto would like to nominate Kimberly Merriman for December's Women of the Month. Kim has shown both malia and myself what it means to be a dedicated member of Trade Women of Alaska. Some things that stand out when I think of Kim is how much time she has volunteered to both her union and to the Women’s Group. From helping set up the holiday party to helping with lit drops. I have also noticed that kim makes it to every meeting that she is able to and the only reason she wouldn’t be able to make it is if she is working. Kim shows up early and leaves late. I have never personally worked with kim but I know that the efforts that she exhibits here with the women’s group would only shine brighter in the work place!”
-Alexis Trombley and Malia Aperto
Congratulation Kim Merriman on becoming December’s woman of the month.
Desiree Wilson - October 2024
Desiree Wilson was nominated by Tracy Smith for October’s woman of the month.
Desiree is a member of LIUNA Public Employees Local 71 for 17 years, working for the Municipality of Anchorage. She started as a Seasonal Parks Caretaker and quickly moved up to a Permanent Parks Caretaker within just a few months. She is now parks foremen. In 2012, she became a Shop Steward and has been a strong voice for her fellow union members ever since. She's served on the negotiating team and on the board of trustees for our health fund. Recently, she's helped organize women to get involved with Tradeswomen of Alaska, showing her dedication to supporting and empowering other women in the trades.
Most recently, Desiree accepted a promotion to Parks Foreman, where she now manages a large crew of parks caretakers. Her leadership, hard work, and commitment to both her job and the union make her a standout.
“That's why I'm nominating Desiree Wilson as Tradeswoman of the Month - she truly represents the strength and spirit of Tradeswomen of Alaska”
-Tracy Smith
Congratulation Desiree on becoming October’s woman of the month.
Caitlyn Hutchison - August 2024
Caitlyn Hutchison was nominated by Stephanie Oja for woman of the month for August.
Caitlyn is working with QAP out on the airport, and is a key player in helping traffic move smoothly.
“As a new flagger, put into an unusual airport environment, she took on the work like someone who has been on the job for awhile. This year she has had an incredible amount of responsibility put on her due to the location of her position. On a daily basis she is in charge of calling planes in and out of our area, navigating trucks on the taxi way, and helping move airport vehicles through an ever changing traffic pattern. She not only uses a company radio to communicate she is simultaneously communicating on the CB radio with trucks and equipment. She has dove in and continued to keep things moving safely with planes, trucks, and automobiles. She has done a great job and I appreciate having the opportunity to work with her everyday!”
-Stephanie Oja
Congratulations Caitlyn on becoming August’s woman of the month!