Danielle Stamborski – Mortenson

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Working in construction has given Danielle Stamborski opportunities to succeed in ways she never could have imagined.

Stamborski, a carpenter apprentice with Mortenson and a member of Ironworkers Local Union 8, has worked in the construction industry for five years.

“Every day I get to be a part of something bigger and say I helped build that,” she said. “I want to do everything I can to help other women have the opportunities I have been given.”

Local 8 has a long and storied history that dates to 1896. Frank J. Weber played a key role organizing Milwaukee’s bridgemen and ironworkers in the years before the first charter was issued. He was a tireless advocate for unions at that time, employed as an organizer by the American Federation of Labor.

Weber helped establish the Wisconsin State Federation of Labor in 1893, became its first president, and served as its general organizer for 23 years. In that role, he fostered the growth of many local unions in various trades throughout the state.

Stamborski continues in that storied history of providing leadership and attention to detail.

“Working on the same project as Danielle, I noticed right away her leadership potential and how she carried herself in a professional manner,” said Charlie Falkner, an ironworker at Local Union 8. “I assumed she was a seasoned journeyman just by her work ethic and skills, along with her mannerisms. Danielle takes many opportunities to mentor whoever comes to her for advice on projects.

“She has also attended events and meetings for the Big Step program and empowHER. Both of those organizations focus on helping women and minorities prepare themselves to get started in the construction trades.”

Stamborski has also volunteered at career fairs in the Milwaukee area, focusing on attracting diversity in the construction trades.