WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representatives with Associated Builders and Contractors announced that Shon Smith, prefabrication manager at ACI Mechanical, Inc. in Ames, Iowa, has been named ABC’s first Young Professional of the Year. Smith was among three finalists for the award chosen based on their career achievement, leadership and vision for future industry enhancement from a field of more than 100 nominations. “Shon is a product of the opportunity our industry affords those who are willing to put in the effort to pursue their dreams and ABC is proud to honor Shon for his commitment to his craft and to promoting a … Read more

SANFORD, Fla. — Carl Whitaker, a training specialist for Crane Institute of America since 2007, was recently named 2015 Professional Honorable Mention by Crane & Rigging Hot Line and Association of Crane & Rigging Professionals. The Annual Training Excellence Award winners are selected by a panel of industry judges for having a positive impact on safety, encouraging accountability in the workplace and demonstrating qualities of innovation and leadership. “Carl’s success as a trainer is due to blending illustrative and hands-on techniques while taking a learner-centered approach,” said Jim Headley, president of Crane Institute. “Carl knows that people learn by doing. … Read more