For the second year in a row, Thackray Crane Rental proudly partnered with the Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MYWIC) Camp, an incredible program hosted by the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation.

The camp is held during the summer months and is a free, week-long camp that introduces girls in 7th–12th grades to the diverse and rewarding careers available in the skilled trades—many of which are often overlooked as career paths for young women.

At Thackray, we believe that education comes in many forms—and MYWIC is a wonderful example of what it looks like when you expand the conversation beyond traditional college degrees. This camp opens eyes and builds confidence, helping girls see that they can pursue fulfilling, well-paying careers in fields that have long been male dominated.

Hands-On Learning in Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to lifting the next generation, Thackray got heavily involved with MYWIC 2025 and have campers the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of our most powerful equipment. Our cranes were on-site to hoist the official MYWIC banner high into the air—an exciting visual that kicked off a day filled with learning, teamwork, and hands-on experience.

Under the guidance of our skilled operators, campers got the chance to climb into crane cabs and learn about the controls, safety procedures, and real-world applications of this essential machinery. Many of the girls had never been that close to a crane before, let alone operated the controls—and seeing their reactions was a powerful reminder of why this program matters.

Inspiring the Next Generation

We were thrilled to have Mark W. Thackray serve once again as the camp’s instructor for crane operations, bringing passion, patience, and a deep knowledge of the industry to every interaction. His leadership and enthusiasm helped create a welcoming environment where the girls felt comfortable asking questions and trying something new.

This year, we were especially honored to welcome a father-daughter team to the event: Juan and Celeste Sanchez. Juan is a seasoned crane operator with Thackray, and his daughter Celeste is a fourth-year apprentice, crane oiler, and operator who is blazing a trail for women in the trades.

Together, they shared their experiences, answered questions, and showed the campers what’s possible when skill meets opportunity and support.

Celeste’s presence was particularly impactful for these young girls. Seeing another young woman confidently operating cranes and making a career in construction showed campers firsthand that they, too, belong in this space.

Her story is a living example of MYWIC’s mission: to break barriers, inspire leadership, and create access to long-term, family-sustaining careers.

A Community Effort

MYWIC wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of local construction firms and community partners. From providing equipment and facilities to offering time, mentorship, and logistical support, companies across the region come together each year to make this camp a reality. We’re proud to be part of that network, and especially proud of the Thackray team—including our staff and volunteers—who went above and beyond to make the day meaningful for every camper.

We’re also grateful to the team at the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation for organizing such a thoughtful, empowering program and continuing to provide young women with new perspectives and opportunities.

Lifting the Future, Together

As the cranes soared and the campers smiled, one thing became clear: the future of construction is in good hands.

These young women are curious, capable, and eager to explore what’s possible. With the right exposure and encouragement, they can—and will—become the project managers, operators, engineers, and leaders of tomorrow.

At Thackray, we’re more than a crane company. We’re builders of opportunity. And we’ll continue to support programs like MYWIC that make space for every young person to rise.

In a powerful step towards shaping the future of women in construction, Thackray Crane is proud to host the Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MyWIC) Camp at the Fraternal Order of Police Hall on Caroline Road, right here in Philadelphia. This unique and inspiring camp, designed for girls aged 12 to 17 from the Philadelphia region, is entirely free and aims to open doors to a traditionally male-dominated field. The MyWIC Camp is the brainchild of the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation and the NAWIC Philadelphia Chapter, both dedicated to promoting and supporting women in the construction industry.

For more details on the fantastic work NAWIC Philadelphia is doing, visit their websites at NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation and MyWIC.

Thackray Crane Rental is thrilled to announce the nomination of two outstanding team members at this year’s Subcontractors Association of Delaware Valley (SADV) 2024 Professional Showcase. This prestigious event serves as a platform to recognize and honor individuals who consistently demonstrate exceptional performance in their respective roles.

Recognizing Excellence and Dedication

The SADV 2024 Professional Showcase is an esteemed occasion that shines a spotlight on individuals who exhibit unparalleled commitment and proficiency within the industry. It celebrates those who continually strive for excellence and go above and beyond in their craft, setting a high standard for their peers.

– Meet the Thackray Crane Nominees –

RoccoDiSalvo – Operator of the Year Nominee

RoccoDiSalvo has been nominated for the esteemed title of Operator of the Year. This nomination stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, expertise, and exemplary performance in the field. Rocco’s commitment to delivering top-notch service reflects Thackray Crane Rental’s core values of excellence and professionalism.

JohnNewnam – Warehouse Manager of the Year Nominee

John Newnam’s nomination for Warehouse Manager of the Year is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional leadership and outstanding contributions. His proactive approach, attention to detail, and commitment to operational excellence have made a significant impact, further solidifying Thackray Crane Rental’s position as a leader in the storage and warehousing industry in the Philadelphia area.

Save the Date: Event Details

The SADV 2024 Professional Showcase will take place on Thursday, February 29th, at Live! Casino Philly from 5-8 pm. This highly anticipated event promises an evening filled with networking opportunities, a delightful dinner, and ending with these prestigious awards.

Join Thackray Crane Rental in honoring and supporting our esteemed nominees as they represent our commitment to excellence.

Let’s come together as a community to celebrate the remarkable achievements of RoccoDiSalvo and JohnNewnam! Remember, at Thackray Crane Rental, excellence is not just a standard – it’s our way of life.

October marks an important occasion for the construction industry as it celebrates “Careers in Construction Month.” It’s a time to recognize and appreciate the hard work, dedication, and opportunities that the field of construction provides. One company that stands out in this industry is Thackray Crane. With a rich family heritage and a commitment to excellence, Thackray Crane offers a remarkable working environment that sets it apart as an employer of choice in the Philadelphia area.

A Legacy of Family Values
Thackray Crane is a family-owned business that has been serving its community for over four generations. Since Walter and Anna Thackray started the company in 1947, it has grown to become the most trusted crane rental company in the Delaware Valley. The foundation of Thackray Crane is built upon strong family values, which are deeply ingrained in the company’s culture. From day one, you’ll feel like a part of the Thackray family, surrounded by a supportive and inclusive team.

A Respected Employer
Thackray Crane’s employment team is not just a group of colleagues; they are considered family. This distinction makes Thackray Crane one of the best construction companies to work for in the Philadelphia area. The company takes pride in fostering a positive and collaborative work environment, where every team member is valued and respected. When you join Thackray Crane, you become part of a team that supports and uplifts one another, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Faith, Family & Country
Thackray Crane embodies the motto of “Faith, Family & Country.” These core values drive the company’s operations and define its relationship with employees. The founders, Walter and Anna Thackray, would be proud to see multiple generations of the Thackray family working alongside project managers, dispatchers, supervisors, operators, oilers, back-office, and support staff. At Thackray Crane, every team member is treated like family, and there is a shared vision to serve each customer with the highest level of integrity.

Opportunities for Growth
Working at Thackray Crane means being part of a company that believes in investing in its employees’ growth and development. The company offers various training programs and advancement opportunities, allowing individuals to enhance their skills and progress in their careers. Whether you’re starting as an operator, sales, or joining the management team, Thackray Crane is committed to helping you reach your full potential.

Making a Difference
Thackray Crane’s work extends beyond merely providing crane rental services. The company takes pride in contributing to the community it serves. As an employee, you’ll have the opportunity to be part of philanthropic initiatives, volunteer programs, and community events organized by Thackray Crane. This provides a chance to make a difference and give back to the communities that have supported the company throughout its long-standing history.

In Conclusion
If you’re considering a career in construction and want to be part of a company that values family, integrity, and growth, then Thackray Crane is the ideal choice. With its rich legacy, renowned reputation, and commitment to its employees and the community, Thackray Crane offers an amazing opportunity to build a fulfilling career. Join the Thackray family and become part of a company that takes pride in its people and the important work they do.