Reaching New Heights: Sammy Cossairt Named NAWIC’s 2025 Tradeswoman of the Year
Updated: Jan 18
30 Second Takeaway
Tower crane operator Sammy Cossairt has been named the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) 2025 Tradeswoman of the Year, recognizing her exceptional skill, leadership, and advocacy for women in the trades. From shaping Nashville’s skyline with Maxim Crane Works to mentoring the next generation and using her voice beyond the job site, Sammy continues to raise the bar for what’s possible in construction.
Shaping the Skyline One Lift at a Time
If you look across Nashville’s growing skyline, there’s a strong chance Sammy Cossairt played a role in bringing it to life. As a Tower Crane Operator with Maxim Crane Works, Sammy spends her days hundreds of feet above active job sites, operating one of the most demanding and high-responsibility machines in construction. It’s a role that requires constant focus, trust in the team below, and the ability to perform under pressure qualities that have come to define her career. Now, that dedication has earned her one of the industry’s most prestigious recognitions.
A National Honor for Excellence in the Trades
In 2025, Sammy was named NAWIC’s National Tradeswoman of the Year, a top honor awarded to women who demonstrate outstanding technical ability, leadership, mentorship, and commitment to advancing the construction industry.
The recognition followed her earlier selection as NAWIC Nashville Tradeswoman of the Year, where her peers first acknowledged the impact she has made locally both on the job site and within the community. These awards place Sammy among a select group of tradeswomen whose work and leadership are helping redefine the future of construction.
Leading by Example at Maxim Crane Works
At Maxim Crane Works, Sammy is widely regarded not only for her precision as an operator, but also for the example she sets for others entering the field. Her colleagues describe her as a role model someone who leads with professionalism, calm under pressure, and a willingness to mentor those around her. Through her presence on site, she has helped make crane operating feel more accessible to women considering careers in the trades.
“Operating a crane takes focus, grit, and trust,” Sammy says. “But it’s also about lifting others whether that’s building the skyline or encouraging the next generation of tradeswomen.”
Recognition Beyond the Job Site
Sammy’s influence extends beyond daily operations. In addition to her NAWIC honors, she was recently named Crane Hub Magazine’s Blue Collar Hero of the Month, a recognition reserved for individuals who exemplify dedication, resilience, and pride in skilled trades.
Each acknowledgment reflects a different facet of her impact technical excellence, leadership, and advocacy all grounded in a genuine passion for the work.
Using Her Voice to Inspire
Beyond cranes, Sammy has found another way to connect with and inspire others.
This fall, she plans to release her original song, “Tradeswoman,” an anthem celebrating women in the trades and reflecting her own journey in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Through music, she hopes to reach audiences who may never have considered construction as a viable or welcoming career path.
It’s another example of how Sammy continues to broaden the conversation around representation, confidence, and opportunity.
Raising the Bar for What’s Possible
With three major honors in a single year NAWIC Nashville Tradeswoman of the Year, Crane Hub’s Blue Collar Hero of the Month, and NAWIC’s National Tradeswoman of the Year. Sammy Cossairt’s story stands as proof of what can happen when skill, perseverance, and purpose align.
More than lifting loads, she’s lifting expectations and helping shape an industry where more people can see themselves belonging. Congratulations, Sammy. You’re not just raising cranes you’re raising the standard for the entire industry.
About NAWIC
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing women in the construction industry. Founded in 1953, NAWIC provides education, professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities to support women across all sectors of construction. Through advocacy, community engagement, and initiatives such as Women in Construction Week, NAWIC works to increase representation, foster leadership, and promote career growth for women in the skilled trades and construction professions.
Website https://www.nawic.org
