Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania is excited to announce the winners of its 2025 Power of Work Awards. These awards recognize outstanding leaders and organizations that are removing barriers to employment and creating new opportunities in our region.
The winners will be celebrated during the Annual Power of Work Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Carnegie Science Center.
This year’s awardees are:
- Champion Award – Kristin Ioannou, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Women Work
Honoring C-suite leaders who champion workforce inclusion, Ioannou has expanded Pennsylvania Women Work’s programs by 40% and built partnerships with 200+ employers, helping women overcome barriers such as incarceration, recovery, and immigration challenges. - Innovation Award – Sims School of Construction (Mr. Brian M. Sims, Sr.)
Recognizing organizations driving new solutions, the Beaver County–based nonprofit equips underserved youth and returning citizens with trade skills, mentorship, and workforce readiness to build stable careers. - Trailblazer Award – WIN-Spirations, Inc. (Dawn Pomaybo)
Celebrating those pushing systemic change, WIN’s workforce programs bring digital literacy labs to underserved communities, train employers in inclusive hiring, and embed career services within Westmoreland County Drug Court—the only program of its kind in the region.
“We are thrilled to honor this year’s awardees, each of whom embodies the spirit of Goodwill’s mission,” said Monique McIntosh, President & CEO of Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania. “Kristin Ioannou, Brian M Sims, Sr., and Dawn Pomaybo are not only removing barriers but also building pathways that transform lives and communities. Their leadership shows what is possible when compassion, innovation, and equity are at the center of workforce development. It is a privilege to celebrate their work and the hope they bring to others.”
About the Power of Work Awards
This year’s Power of Work Awards ceremony marks the 28th anniversary of the recognition program. Goodwill created the Power of Work Awards program in 1997 to honor individuals, organizations, and companies that are changing lives through opportunity and inclusion in the workforce. Awards are presented in three categories: Champion, Innovation, and Trailblazer.
The 2025 Power of Work Awards Ceremony will take place on October 22, 2025, at the Carnegie Science Center. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities and event details are available at:
https://goodwillsp.givecloud.co/2025powerofworkawards