Nick Santmyer of Davken Mechanical, Virginia Seaside, Virginia, has been named the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—Nationwide Affiliation (PHCC) 2022 Plumbing Apprentice of the Yr. Co-sponsored by PHCC Govt Sponsor Delta Faucet, the award acknowledges the excellent talent and achievements of people who’re enrolled in a plumbing coaching program. It was introduced final week at PHCCCONNECT2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Santmyer, who not too long ago graduated from Norfolk Technical Middle in Virginia, is an “concept man,” says Tony Bertolino, plumbing teacher at Norfolk Technical Middle (and PHCC’s 2021 Plumbing Teacher of the Yr). “From day one [in my class], he was an inquisitive and insightful plumber, usually staying after class to speak extra concerning the trades and assist me decide the room again up for the day time college students,” he provides. “Nick’s enthusiasm for plumbing has solely grown since then.”
VA Apprentice of the Yr
Nominated by PHCC of Virginia, Santmyer is described as being versatile and educated and embracing alternatives to problem-solve. Earlier this 12 months, he positioned second in Virginia’s Plumbing Apprentice Competitors and was named PHCC of Virginia’s Plumbing Apprentice of the Yr.
Years in the past, Santmyer was employed as a carpenter/framer earlier than transferring to France to lift his kids. When he and his spouse determined to maneuver again to Virginia Seaside, he wished to pursue a job that he felt assured he would love. In 1998, he discovered a job with a plumbing firm in Virginia Seaside and loved it a lot, that he by no means regarded again.
Right now, Santmyer’s employers observe that his angle, his integrity on the job, and his technical capability assist him to offer a superb, wholesome, motivating ambiance the place folks wish to present their finest. He’s designated as the worker entrusted to coach newly employed helpers and apprentices.
Downside Solver
Santmyer has gained expertise in quite a lot of settings, “bringing with him no matter he has discovered and finishing the job with information and sensible expertise.” So far, Santmyer has labored in each current and new industrial/residential plumbing and has accomplished jobs in quite a few services, together with hospitals, colleges, shipyards, eating places, and lodges.
Says Bertolino of Santmyer: “He isn’t afraid to suggest one thing for worry he could possibly be fallacious. Many instances he comes up with options to issues myself or different college students have been speaking about. This earns him an excessive amount of respect from his fellow classmates. … He’ll at all times stay one of the crucial vital folks I’ve ever taught.”