The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association's Arizona Chapter (SMACNA Arizona) recently honored five skilled craftsmen with its second annual Apprenticeship Award. Apprentices were selected by the Joint Apprentice Training Committee (JATC) from nearly 150 current students, based on the input of instructors and evaluations submitted by the worksite foreman. The apprentices were recognized for their leadership, willingness to help others, ability to work through problems, and other practical skills. Pictured are (from left) Carlos Ramirez of Ramirez Mechanical and president of SMACNA Arizona; Steven Diaz of Thomas Heating and Air, fifth-year apprentice; Reyes Gonzales of Ramirez Mechanical, fourth-year apprentice; Kent Ramos of Kinetics Systems, third-year apprentice; Anthony Cassillas of Thomas Heating and Air, second-year apprentice; Jon Gardner of Bel-Aire Mechanical, first-year apprentice; and John Sapien of Bel-Aire Mechanical and management trustee of the JATC.

Publication date: 11/17/2003