2026 FORGE Awards celebrate skilled labor workers and companies
An employee of a Hilo construction company and a 100-year-old Hilo contracting firm are the winners of the inaugural FORGE Awards, a new recognition program that celebrates skilled labor workers and businesses.
Mark Damaso, Vice President of Takamine Construction’s Millwork and Recreational Division in Hilo, was named Outstanding Skilled-labor Employee of the Year for his significant contributions, innovativeness and years of service.
Isemoto Contracting LTD, also located in Hilo, was named Skilled Company of the Year. Its president is Leslie Isomoto, grandson of Hisato Isemoto, who founded the business 100 years ago. It was recognized for its contributions to the physical and service infrastructure that supports daily life.
Winners were announced at the first annual awards ceremony on Sept. 17 at the Hawai‘i Island Contractors Association’s Capital Improvement Project dinner at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.
According to a news release, the new FORGE Awards were created to recognize skilled labor workers and businesses that build and maintain essential infrastructure, fuel economic growth, promote local commerce, harness the local workforce and support emerging markets.
The program celebrates the craftsmanship, dedication, and leadership that drive Hawaiʻi’s economy and community growth.
