Delta Faucet Company and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors – National Association (PHCC) announced the 2009 National Plumbing Apprentice of the Year recipient at their 127th Annual Convention in New Orleans on October 23rd.
Andrew J. Firestine of North Side Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. in Fort Wayne, IN, was named “Plumbing Apprentice of the Year” in recognition of his hard work and openness to learning new things and taking on challenges. Firestine has completed his fourth year class at Fort Wayne Area PHCC Apprenticeship program, with a 4.0 GPA. This award recognizes an outstanding plumbing apprentice for his overall performance in the field. Nominees are judged on attitude, enthusiasm, accuracy, compatibility with coworkers, knowledge and the application of skills to work.
“Andy has a ‘can-do, will-do’ attitude regardless of the task”, said John David Hartman, President, North Side Plumbing. “He has a strong work and moral ethic.”
Firestine graduated from Bishop Dwenger High School in 2000 where he was a 21st Century Scholarship recipient and an All Conference wrestler. “Plumbing is a trade I can be proud of,” said Firestine. “It is a great avenue towards a good, honest living.”
“We are excited to recognize Andy as our Plumbing Apprentice of the Year,” said Jon Dartt, vice president of trade and international sales for Delta Faucet Company. “We hope this recognition will inspire others in the industry.”