MEET THE JUDGES

Meet our esteemed panel of judges for the Build-Up Berkeley competition! These distinguished individuals come from various sectors of the business world, bringing a wealth of diverse expertise and unique insights to the table. Each judge understands the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship firsthand. Their discerning eyes will evaluate each business plan and pitch with precision, searching for innovation, feasibility, and potential for impact. Their role is pivotal in ensuring the integrity of the competition and selecting the deserving winners. Their commitment to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Berkeley County is truly commendable. 

Halima Wanamaker

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J.C. Henson

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Jillian Wyland

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Drew Johnson

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Shawn Alderton

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Halima Wanamaker is the visionary Founder and CEO of VEMTECH, a premier IT managed services provider based in Martinsburg, West Virginia. With over two decades of experience in IT and a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems, Halima has built a career dedicated to empowering businesses through innovative technology solutions.

Under her leadership, VEMTECH has become a trusted partner for civil engineers, architects, and financial service providers, offering tailored IT support, cybersecurity, and cloud management services. As the only managed service provider in Martinsburg with tiered pricing, VEMTECH stands out for its exceptional customer service, proactive approach, and innovative solutions.

Halima’s passion for technology is matched by her commitment to diversity and inclusion. She founded VEMTECH with a mission to empower women and minorities in the tech industry. Her dedication to excellence has earned VEMTECH a perfect record of no cybersecurity breaches in its eight years of operation.

Halima leverages innovation to help her clients grow, often transforming businesses into thriving enterprises. Through her expertise, she has helped multiple clients double in size within just a year and a half.

Beyond her professional achievements, Halima is deeply committed to personal growth and well-being. She prioritizes daily reading, journaling, and prayer as part of her routine to maintain balance and health.

Halima is also an active networker, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and attending industry events, including the AIA Conference. Her approachable and trustworthy style has made her a sought-after leader and partner in the IT and business community.

When she’s not leading VEMTECH, Halima enjoys spending time with her family and exploring innovative ways to combine her love for technology with her passion for making a difference.

JC was born and raised in Berkeley County. He is a co-owner of the Oakwood BBQ Company, which won the Build Up Berkeley competition in 2023. He is also the manager of Tri-County Rental, a local business celebrating their 50th year of operation. He began working for Tri-County Rental in 2009. Since then, he has worked himself into a position to purchase the business in the near future. In 2018, along with his friends Cody Sheppard and Zack Walburn, Oakwood began operating. Transforming from mobile “popup” style events to a brick mortar establishment in 2023 located at 11 Shooting Star Ln Martinsburg, WV. Oakwood is steadily working towards their end goal of a full time “culinary destination” located here in Berkeley County. When he isn't busy with rentals or BBQ he enjoys spending time hunting, fishing, and golfing.

She is a Board Member with Main Street Martinsburg, and an active member of her community. After graduating from Hedgesville High School, she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting with a focus on Non-Profit Accounting. She spent close to 18 years in the Finance industry until she decided to follow her passion of owning her own business. At Westwood Charm Boutique, the motto says it all, Be Bold. Be Unique. Be You. and Jillian manifests just that in her stylish, comfortable and inspirational boutique shop in Downtown Martinsburg. Customers can expect a size inclusive selection to meet the needs of many while exploring our growing community. She currently lives in Falling Waters with her husband, three fabulous children, and too many animals to name!

Prior to his foray into the restaurant industry, Drew was an original founder of Touchstone Realty, a real estate firm that has gained national recognition based on his high production. He was recognized in the Wall Street Journal as the 11th, 14th, and 27th highest producing agent in the nation three years in a row. Touchstone Realty continues to be one of the highest producing agencies in the area. In addition to his successful real estate career, Drew is also the owner of Panhandle Dumpsters, the leading dumpster provider in the Tri-state area. The company services over 11,000 weekly residential curb side trash collection customers, cementing Drew's reputation as a successful businessman. Drew also owns a rental portfolio of over 100 units, including 23 Airbnb’s that offer luxury living in Berkeley County. He has a keen eye for real estate investments and has been able to grow his portfolio steadily over the years. Drew has been involved in over one billion dollars-worth of real estate transactions in his 21-year career. As a founding member of Clear Water Financial, Drew has been instrumental in providing millions of dollars of funding to local projects. Clearwater manages over $50,000,000 in lendable funds, making it a valuable asset for the community by offering alternative funding. Moreover, Drew's entrepreneurial spirit led him to develop the concept and design for The Hub and all of its locations, which has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Drew's contributions to the local community have been invaluable, and his success has made him a well-respected figure in Martinsburg and beyond. Drew’s most important achievements include his 20-year marriage to his best friend and raising two perfect (sometimes) young ladies that are poised to attack the world with the same tenacity he has.

A lifelong  resident of Berkeley County, WV.  He is a graduate of Martinsburg High School and Shephard University. After 30 years in retail corporate management, he and his wife jumped head first into small business ownership when they opened Food By Fire, a restaurant on wheels in January 2022. 

They have won several accolades as the business continues to grow.  Tremendous community support led to the purchase of a second food truck as well as a brick-and-mortar location in late 2024, hopeful to have both new businesses operational by Summer of 2025.  Shawn was a participant in last year’s pitch competition, bringing home some prize monies to invest into this business. He knows the value of this competition and is ready to take part in helping others grow their small business. 

Shawn and his wife of 18 years currently reside in Martinsburg. They have 3 children and 3 grandchildren and enjoy spending time with their families. Shawn is honored to have been selected to sit as a judge for this year’s competition.