Inclusion
Denise Gilliam
Director of Inclusion & Outreach
Elford is committed to the development of design/construction professionals throughout the regions we serve.
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Engage
Partner
Mentor
Participate
Support
We're Here to Help
We serve as mentors to MBE/WBE firms to enhance their skills and capabilities through coaching and professional development, as well as advance the capabilities of our employees through learning and training events that include diversity topics. We are committed to demonstrating a fair-minded approach with all of our partners as we work together to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients.
Since 2020, Elford has contracted with MBE, EDGE, WBE, DBE, VBE, and other minority subcontractors for over
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Recognition
Denise Gilliam, honored as the Top MBE Advocate by the Ohio Minority Business Enterprises, has been a driving force in promoting minority business partnerships in Ohio.
Under her leadership, Elford was recognized with the Diversity Leader Award by Profiles in Diversity Journal and named the 2024 Prime Contractor of the Year by the Ohio Transportation Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Awards Program. Denise's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion also earned her the Community Champion Award from the 2024 Columbus Business First Women of Influence Awards, recognizing her impactful contributions across the industry and community.
Inclusive Projects
% = MBE/DBE Participation
"I first met Denise at a meet-and-greet, where she made it completely clear that she was our advocate. Denise and Elford, as a whole, aren’t just about lip service; they are truly committed to supporting minority businesses. Thanks to their partnership, Material Hauling has seen tremendous growth this year, and I am proud to say they have been a key part of that success."
Renee Davis
Vice President | Material Hauling
The Elford Way
The Elford Way is our innovative mentorship program designed to support underutilized businesses.
This forward-thinking initiative reflects our commitment to community empowerment. With a remarkable success rate — 50% of graduates securing contracts and work opportunities — it's more than just a program; it's a sustainable model that focuses on building relationships and providing advocacy. By equipping small and diverse businesses with essential tools and a robust network, Elford is helping them thrive and succeed in today's competitive marketplace.
Careers In Construction
We are committed to supporting Vocational and Career Technology Development in the communities we serve. Investing in the next generation of tradespeople, skilled craft labor, and industry leaders is crucial. Our initiatives include:
- Regular interactive site tours
- Summer internships for eligible students
- Project presentations to engage and inspire future talent
