Each year, an estimated 100,000 SkillsUSA students complete technical programs that enable them to be job-ready on “day one.” As a sponsor, CertainTeed was able to directly impact scholarship recipients by encouraging them to continue pursuing training and furthering their education in the construction trades. The scholarship program recognizes active members and alumni who have a passion for the craft and are planning to attend schools, community colleges, or undergraduate programs and to pursue industry certifications within the construction trades. The scholarship will be applied to the 2018-2019 academic year for 28 recipients.

“As a leader in the industry, we continue to focus our efforts on building the pipeline of tradesmen and women by supporting them in various ways,” said Matt Gibson, vice president of corporate marketing, CertainTeed. “Whether it’s through career guidance or financial assistance, it’s our goal to make sure students are aware of the opportunities and to give them the tools for a successful career path.”

Each recipient of $2,500 in scholarship funds was selected based on a series of criteria, which included an application, a 300-word essay, and a letter of support from a teacher, administrator, SkillsUSA advisor, or educational/professional mentor. The following winners were acknowledged at a special reception at the annual SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville, Kentucky:

•           Brandon Copenhaver (drywall);

•           Alexandra DeGroot (architectural drafting);

•           Patrick Duckett (cabinetmaking);

•           Darian Edsitty (plumbing);

•           Megan Enouen (architecture);

•           Caleb Erickson (carpentry);

•           Shawn Evelyn (woodworking);

•           Cody Flood (carpentry);

•           Joshua Fox (electrical);

•           Cameron Galloway (building construction);

•           Grant Hansen (carpentry/construction);

•           Hayden Hart (carpentry);

•           Alexis Hribar (wood manufacturing);

•           Trey Johnson (plumbing/HVACR);

•           Michael Knoechel (construction technology);

•           Anthony Koller (electrical);

•           Jose Lopez (construction management);

•           Joseph Lou (architectural drafting);

•           Jacqueline Medina (masonry);

•           Sean Morey (drafting);

•           Michelle Perez (masonry);

•           Aaron Porro-Harrell (electrical);

•           Chris Powell (electrical and residential wiring);

•           Christopher Schwaller (drafting/engineering);

•           Madison Thum (architecture & construction management);

•           Andrew VanderWal (electrical);

•           Natalie Walker (architectural drafting); and

•           Timothy Watkins (cabinetmaking/construction).

“Having CertainTeed and Fine Homebuilding’s continued support makes a great difference as we focus on the next generation,” said Tim Lawrence, executive director, SkillsUSA. “We are excited that they continue to lead the efforts and partnered with SkillsUSA to honor these extremely deserving men and women.”

Renee Jordan, publisher, Fine Homebuilding said the publication is dedicated to supporting those who have a passion and are on track to exceling in the trades.

“Partnering with CertainTeed to benefit the youth tradesmen and women has made a lasting impact on the #KeepCraftAlive mission to fill the skills gap,” Jordan said.

For more information, visit www.certainteed.com.

Publication date: 12/11/18