Mililani Resident Wins Carpenters Award

The Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters has named George Ehara, a Mililani resident, its Outstanding Union Builder of the Year.

Winners are chosen for their contribution to the construction industry and the community, while demonstrating a commitment to union construction.

“Under George’s leadership, Swinerton Builders beat the odds,” said Ron Taketa, executive secretary-treasurer of the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters.

“The company not only survived, but thrived during the recession.”

Ehara joined Swinerton Builders in 1999 and became vice president of the company’s Hawaii operation six years later. In that time, Swinerton grew from one employee to 60-plus.

Swinerton’s projects include the Hilo Judiciary Complex as well as major renovations to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, Hilton Hawaiian Village, Waikiki Shopping Plaza, Kameha-meha Schools, Sheraton Waikiki, and University of Hawaii at Manoa.

“What George has been able to accomplish in just a short time is truly remarkable,” stated Pacific Resource Partnership executive director John White.

“Our industry and our community have benefited from his dedication to quality, commitment to excellence and active support of his employees.”

In addition to his duties at Swinerton, Ehara serves as a trustee of the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters Health & Welfare Trust Fund and is on the board of directors of Swinerton Builders, General Contractors Association, Child & Family Service, Hawaii Arthritis Foundation, Swinerton Foundation and the Hawaii chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties.