Arizona DOT honored for its commitment to diversity

Updated Nov 19, 2015

Arizona-Welcome-SignThe Arizona Department of Transportation has been honored with an award for the department’s commitment to diversity.

The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Minority Business Development Agency awarded ADOT with the Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence Award Nov. 13 at the Business Diversity Summit, the department announced. The award is given annually to organizations that are committed to supporting small businesses owned by minorities and women.

ADOT has awarded more than $25 million in the past year in contracts to contractors and suppliers owned by minorities and women.

“This agency is grounded in the values of accountability, integrity and respect. The commitment to diversity recognized by this award speaks to one core way we hold ourselves to the highest professional standards,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said. “… ADOT employees have worked extensively to connect with the diversity of Arizona’s business community. In addition to informing about potential bid opportunities, they educate firms about how to do business with ADOT.”

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Gonzalo de la Melena Jr., said the department helps foster the impact Hispanics have on the economy in Arizona.

“So we’re pleased to have a partner in the Arizona Department of Transportation as we promote diversity in hiring, promotion and the supply chain pipeline,” he said.