Meet the BIA Hawaii Team
At the Building Industry Association of Hawaii, our dedicated staff work every day to advance the mission of strengthening Hawaiʻi’s building industry through advocacy, education, and community engagement. United by a shared commitment to excellence, collaboration, and service, our team supports members, partners, and the public in building safe, sustainable, and affordable homes across our islands.
Chief Executive Officer
Roseann Freitas | Chief Executive Officer
info@biahawaii.org
808-629-7500
Roseann brings a wealth of experience across accounting, marketing, and interior design. Her diverse background serves her well in leading BIA Hawaii with vision and integrity. Known for her professionalism and strategic leadership, she has earned trust as a respected voice for Hawaiʻi’s business community, including her years with the Better Business Bureau. Roseann is deeply passionate about supporting local small businesses and strengthening Hawaiʻi’s construction industry through education, advocacy, and collaboration.
Finance and Administration
Stanley Urutsuka | Director of Finance and Administration
stan@biahawaii.org
808-629-7515
With decades of financial management experience, Stan ensures BIA Hawaii operates with fiscal integrity and accountability. He oversees all financial processes, budgets, and reporting, providing precise and timely information to the Board of Directors and Finance Committee. Meticulous and reliable, Stan’s expertise keeps BIA’s operations on solid financial ground. Outside of work, he enjoys bowling and participated in BIA Hawaii’s first Halloween Bowling Tournament.
Operations
Tricia Laanui-Nuestro | Director of Operations
tricia@biahawaii.org
808-629-7511
As Director of Operations, Tricia manages BIA Hawaii’s facilities to ensure they remain safe, efficient, and sustainable. She oversees systems and workflows that strengthen coordination across departments, improve cost efficiency, and support long-term organizational goals. With a strong background in IT and operations management, Tricia leads efforts to maintain reliable technology and infrastructure. Her proactive approach and commitment to continuous improvement help BIA operate smoothly and effectively in service to its members.
Education
Eva Marie Whitworth | Education Manager
marie@biahawaii.org
808-629-7504
As Education Manager, Marie oversees BIA Hawaii’s workforce development programs including the signature Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training (PACT) program, professional certifications, and continuing education workshops. She holds a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering and combines technical expertise with a passion for teaching. Marie helps members and professionals advance their skills and careers across Hawaiʻi’s building industry.
Kayana Omalza-Ibert | Education Coordinator
kayana@biahawaii.org
808-629-7504
Kayana supports BIA Hawaii’s education programs by coordinating classes, registrations, and student communications. She serves as the primary contact for members and the public who are seeking training or certification opportunities. A graduate of WorkHawaiʻi, Kayana found her professional calling in workforce development and has become a valued part of BIA’s education team.
Membership
Jemma Bosch Algarme | Office / Membership Coordinator
jemma@biahawaii.org
808-629-7508
Jemma brings diverse experience from both corporate and small-business environments with strengths in auditing, compliance, and customer relations. As lead for Membership, she helps members connect with the full value of BIA Hawaii. She also plays an instrumental role in event coordination and financial support. Known for her attention to detail and team spirit, Jemma’s creative side shines through her background as a singer and performer television.
Marketing and Events
Eric Baranda | Marketing and Events Manager
eric@biahawaii.org
808-629-7501
Eric leads marketing, communications, and brand strategy for BIA Hawaii. With experience in both corporate and nonprofit sectors, he has managed brands locally and on the mainland in the Pacific Northwest. A published writer for Honolulu Magazine, Eric brings a storytelling approach to promoting BIA’s mission and highlights the people, programs, and partnerships that build Hawaiʻi’s homes and communities.