So many award winners, so little space to write about them all. As you can see from our front cover, Mike Weber was the recipient of AWCI’s Pinnacle Award during AWCI’s Convention this year. He should have gotten it in 2020, but we all remember how that year turned out. Then we tried again in 2021—twice! But they say good things come to those who wait, and hopefully this was worth the wait for Mike.
I have liked Mike (and his wife Jane) since the day we met, and it’s always a pleasure when someone I consider to be a good friend and valued AWCI supported is recognized by the industry. All the good things you hear or read about Mike are true, I can’t deny it. He is incredibly generous, very smart, an excellent businessman and just plain fun to be around. Like those who have won the award before him, he is someone many people admire and respect. I’m proud to know him and am so happy for him. Turn to page 30 so you can learn more about Mike.
George Kutcher was also recognized during AWCI’s Convention with our Distinguished Service Award, and I can’t think of anyone more worthy of receiving this award. Even though George retired from National Gypsum last year, he came to our convention this year for a “final lap.” For me, George was always a constant presence at our meetings, and over the years he has been a coach, a mentor and a good friend to me. I’m not sure he knows how much I counted on him throughout the years, and I am going to miss him at future meetings. Turn to page 33 to get to know George.
The AWCI awards coverage continues on page 34 with highlights regarding the excellence in construction quality, safety and innovation awards. Because we opened new prefab categories in the construction quality awards, there are several more winners for you to review this year. AWCI members do fantastic work, and we bring the best of the best to the pages of this magazine. Congratulations to all our winners.
This magazine also features the first article written for us by AWCI’s new safety director, Pete Chaney. We put him to work right away, and he has been going strong by keeping his finger on the pulse of all the safety-related rules and regulations in our industry. Turn to page 40 to learn about the issues AWCI is watching, and what AWCI is doing on behalf of its members. And do let me know if you think we missed anything. AWCI’s mission is to help members run successful businesses in the wall and ceiling industry, and safety, health and wellness play a large role in that success.
Enjoy!
