20 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND REAL ESTATE titled “Bugging a Bug.” Since writing her books, Mrs. Sykes has received a myriad of accolades for her writing prowess and mission. In light of her outstanding contributions to the construction industry and methodologies of teaching for emerging female entrepreneurs and construction workers, Mrs. Sykes was recognized as a Female Leader in Construction by “Construction Dive” in March of 2021. She notes that only 59 women out of 800 nominated women were chosen for the award across the nation. Additionally, Mrs. Sykes earned the Black Female Leader in Construction Award. Despite her lauded accolades, however, she is especially proud of giving back to the young women community who endeavor to enter the construction industry. Looking toward the future, Mrs. Sykes aims to continue witnessing the growth and success of her career. She is married to her husband Robi Sykes and has three daughters and one son. Since 2020, Juanakee C. Sykes has excelled as the executive director of Black Girls Build, Inc., in Illinois. While spending 10 years as a commercial and residential carpenter for 90 Degree Construction LLC – a company she had established with her husband – Mrs. Sykes was encountered with significant gender bias and discrimination for being a woman in a male-oriented industry. Drawing upon these experiences, she desired to create avenues in which she could teach construction skills and principles to women and young girls to combat against gender discrimination in the workforce. As such, Black Girls Buildwas established, and it now specializes in teaching women the fundamentals of carpentry, floor laying, painting, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Earlier inher career, Mrs. Sykes served as a nurse for 12 years, ending her career with the pressures of being an oncology nurse. Demonstrating versatility in her profession, she has also published a memoir, titled “My A.R.R.A.: Growing into Me,” which received the C.I.P.A. EVVY Award. She also authored a beginning readers children’s book, JUANAKEE C. SYKES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CARPENTER Black Girls Build, Inc. Belleville, IL
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