Our organization was formed by a mother-daughter duo. Chris, since she had her own trucking company, has always wanted to have a non-profit organization that was dedicated to the trades. With the help of her daughter, they have made that vision a reality. The trades industry is overlooked and underappreciated in today’s society. Our founders want to encourage those that choose to enter the workforce instead of attending college. We help lay the foundation for those individuals to guide them on a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Christine Dzula:
I grew up in rural New York on my parents’ farm. I knew I wanted to work with my hands since I was a kid and started working as soon as I was old enough. I started driving truck in 1988 and shortly after I got my Class A license. In 1995 I co-founded Sunshine, a trucking company in the Finger Lakes Region. The trucking company started with 2 trucks and grew to 50 of our own trucks and 50-100 owner operators. After selling the business in 2006, I started a new venture in the excavation industry with my life partner. He started his business in 1998 and continues to have one of the best excavation companies in the Finger Lakes. Now, I want to give back to the trade’s community. They have allowed me to have a successful career and I want to give the next generation the opportunity I have had.
Dakota Dzula:
I was born and raised in western New York with my mom, dad, stepdad, and sister. We relocated to North Carolina in 2015, where I graduated high school in 2017. In rural NY, I grew up on a farm where I was taught the importance of being able to work with your hands. My mom and dad were both truck drivers by trade. My dad was a skilled diesel mechanic, and my stepdad owns one of the best excavation companies in the Finger Lakes area. Having immediate family members in the trades, taught me the importance of their role in society that so many people overlook. I look forward to being able to help my generation and those younger have successful careers in any way I can.