Presenting one of my favorite issues of the year: our awards issue.
I may be a bit biased since I manage AWCI’s awards program, but I also know the people involved, from the judges to the winners. This year we presented our most prestigious award, the Pinnacle Award, to John Hinson of Marek in Texas.
John is definitely a good guy. If you saw him in action at Build24: AWCI’s Convention + Expo, you know I am right about that. He is one of the first to greet you when you are in his presence, he takes time to personally thank our sponsors, and he gives credit to those who deserve it. He believes in teamwork, high standards and the Dallas Cowboys.
One of the first words that comes to mind about John when asked to characterize him is “mentor.” Like everyday heroes who say they were just doing what any human being would do, that they are not a hero, John would probably tell you he is not a mentor. But John excels when it comes to making people feel welcome. Young or old, new AWCI member or first-time convention attendee, John will make you feel welcome. Learn more about this remarkable person by reading more about him on page 32.
Then, beginning on page 35, AWCI’s Construction Dimensions pays homage to the winners of AWCI’s awards for construction quality, innovation and safety. Our construction quality awards recognize the best of the best building projects in nine different categories, the safety awards highlight companies with stellar safety, health and wellness programs, and the innovation award went to a product that one judge said would “change the industry.”
Two feature articles in this issue look at minorities in construction (page 26), and acoustics and insulation (page 62).
The construction industry includes 25 million minority workers, and in this article, AWCI member contractors have a variety of answers when asked about challenges and how the industry can help minorities succeed. With specialty contractors constantly on the lookout for competent workers, all demographics—including minorities, women and people with disabilities—should be considered for the various jobs the industry has to offer.
Finally, the balance needed in acoustic ceiling tiles and insulation for a soundproof room is presented in a humorous yet educational way by our writer, whose son found joy in a drum kit at a young age. Lessons were definitely learned along the way, and the knowledge paid off when the drummer asked his dad to build him a noise-pollution–free sound booth a few years later. Today the “little drummer boy” has a successful music career, and his father’s hearing is still intact thanks to a correct incorporation of acoustic products and insulation.
Enjoy!
