Penny Painter

Since 2005, Penny has served in a project management role for all Workforce Development initiatives at Akana, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advancing careers in the construction trades. Her professional journey began in the field, where she worked as a journey-level carpenter and later owned and managed a successful construction company for 18 years.

With over 25 years of experience in workforce development, Penny has specialized in outreach, recruitment, screening, mentoring, case management, and follow-up support for both pre-apprentices and apprentices. Her work has been instrumental in helping individuals—particularly those from underrepresented communities—gain the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed in the construction industry.

Penny is actively engaged with organizations across Oregon that support pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship training programs. Her passion lies in helping individuals turn construction into a lifelong career, while also bridging the gap between job seekers and apprenticeship programs or employers. She continues to mentor workforce representatives and clients who have benefited from the programs she has helped shape over the past two decades.

Penny’s dedication, industry knowledge, and hands-on experience make her a respected leader and advocate in the field of workforce development and construction training.