Another member of the Cianbro Institute is being recognized nationally for their efforts and top-shelf training skills. At the 2013 ABC National Craft championship competition, Tony Ayotte was presented with the Craft Instructor of the Year award. Tony was nominated by his peers for this award and was selected the winner from a pool of six finalists. When presenting the award, ABC National Chairman Greg Hoberock said, “Tony’s commitment to his students, and his willingness to go above and beyond to help them become the best and safest in their field, has earned him the title of the 2013 Craft Instructor of the year." 

The nomination paperwork submitted for review consisted of a letter from Tony’s mentor Ed LePage, who is a former recipient of this award, and several letters from previous students in Tony’s pipefitter classes. Committee members reviewing the candidates said all six of the trainers had impressive resume’s.  What set Tony’s nomination apart were the letters from his former students telling of the dedication and above-the-call-of-duty assistance that he was willing to give to help them succeed in the pipefitting field. 

“Cianbro is very proud of Tony’s accomplishments," Said Cianbro's HSE Vice President Mike Bennett.  "He is passionate about the craft profession and believes in developing people. He cares deeply for those who want to pursue a career in the trades and is constantly following up with the projects to ensure that his trainees have the opportunities to apply their learning. The effort and passion Tony displays every day is real and heartfelt. Although he doesn’t do it for the accolades, this is a wonderful recognition of his contribution to the construction industry and to the Cianbro family. Please join us in congratulating Tony for this national recognition. It is well deserved."

As a recipient of this award, Tony was awarded a cash prize from the Trimmer Construction Education Foundation, and a notebook computer and leather jacket from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCCER) .