CELEBRATING THOSE WHO BUILD CLEVELAND
2026
www.clevelandcraftsmanship.com
Congratulations to all honorees at the 2026 CEA Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
SHAWN GRAY Business Manager/Financial Secretary
CPI Trustees: SCOTT WALLENSTEIN CPI Chairman DAN MILLER
JOHN HODGE TIM WHEELER Business Representatives JAMES FATICA President
ED STAGGS Vice President
MARK WILLSON
TIM OCONNELL JOSH IHLENFIELD BRIAN CLINK MATT MARION Executive Board
TIM LAVELLE (Alternate)
CHRISTOPHER THAXTON JATC Coordinator NICK HNAT BURT SKEEL Full Time Instructoers
Masters of the Craft
2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards honors Northeast Ohio’s best By Myra Rosario | Photos by Alaina Battle
O
n August 20, 2026, Cleveland’s construction community gathered at Cleveland Browns Stadium for the Construction Employers Association’s (CEA) annual Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards, bringing together more than 600 industry leaders to celebrate the people and projects building Northeast Ohio. Keynote speaker Jay Edwards, candidate for Ohio Treasurer of State (pictured above), helped set the tone for an inspiring evening. Presented in partnership with the Cleveland Building and Construction Trades Council (CBCTC) and leading union contractors, the event recognized excellence, from rising apprentices and skilled tradespeople to contractors delivering some of the region’s most challenging projects. The Craftsmanship Awards honor exceptional skill, attention to detail and work exceeding industry expectations. Honorees are selected by architects
evaluating technical mastery, complexity and aesthetics. “I think it’s really important that we recognize the quality work that our
hard every day, and they produce quality work.” This year, CEA recognized 26 Apprentices of the Year and 24 Craftsmanship Award honorees, in addition to presenting 20 Building Excellence Awards for projects that pushed boundaries in quality and innovation in the region. Building Excellence Award categories included categories Steve Friedmann for New Construction $25 Million; New Brookpark Design Builders Over Construction Between $10 and $25 Million; New craftspeople do each and every day,” Construction Under $10 Million; says David Wondolowski, executive Renovation Construction Over $10 director of CBCTC. “Our people are Million; Renovation Construction skilled, our men and women work Under $10 Million; plus Heavy
“We don’t always get an opportunity to truly take a step back and recognize the hard work, dedication and time that these men and women put toward a greater goal. It’s nice to see each one of them recognized for the hard work that they do.”
3
1
4
2
3
5
6
HONORING ACHIEVEMENTS [1] Construction Employers Association CEO Tim Linville; [2] Carpenters (CMRCC) Floorlayer Apprentice of the Year Brian Breeler and Dave Wondoloski (CBTC); [3] Ken Burr (Marous Brothers Construction) and Mike Gallagher (Cuyahoga County Council District 5); [4] Thomas M. Bryne (Laborers Local 310) and Laborer Apprentice of the Year Quentin Forbes (Laborers Local 310); [5] Greg Wisniewski and Jeremy Levenson (The Great Lakes Construction Company) with Glen Shumate (Construction Employers Association); and [6] Carpenters (CMRCC) Pile Driver Apprentice of the Year Keith Gregg with family.
Highway & Civil. Projects spanned major infrastructure improvements and healthcare expansions, renovated office facilities and newly built multifamily residential buildings, and even structural construction of Cedar Point’s newest roller coaster. The Craftsmanship Awards recognize the skilled tradespeople and crews whose expertise, precision and attention to detail contribute to the quality of Northeast Ohio construction projects. Honorees are selected for exemplary work in specific areas of the building process – from carpentry, masonry and millwork to roofing, steel framing, plumbing, sheet metal and sitework – performed on notable projects. “We don’t always get an opportunity to truly take a step back and recognize
the hard work, dedication and time that these men and women put toward a greater goal,” says Steve Friedmann, vice president of Brookpark Design Builders. “It’s nice to see each one of
Northeast Ohio’s skilled trades. Honorees are selected for their dedication, work ethic, technical growth and contributions on the job, with awards presented across a range of trades. “The Building Excellence and Craftsmanship Awards are really a celebration of the people who build Cleveland,” says Tim Linville, chief executive officer of CEA. “The projects we recognize help define our region, but behind every one of them are skilled men and women Tim Linville whose craftsmanship, pride and CEA commitment to excellence make those projects possible. As the them recognized for the hard work host organization, CEA is proud that they do.” to bring our industry together to The Apprentice of the Year Awards recognize not only what we build, recognize outstanding individuals but the extraordinary people who who are building their careers in build it.” ■
“The projects we recognize help define our region, but behind every one of them are skilled men and women whose craftsmanship, pride and commitment to excellence make those projects possible.”
The 2027 Building Excellence and Craftsmanship Awards nomination process will begin January 1, 2027 and are due by April 1, 2027. New year’s awards will cover work completed between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2026. To learn more and to view additional photos and videos from this year’s awards program, visit www.clevelandcraftsmanship.com.. 4
2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
Congratulations to All Participants of the Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
1590 E. 23rd St., Cleveland, OH 44114 216-621-3090 | www.ibew38.org
5
Thank You to All Members and Special Congratulations to
2026 BUILDING EXCELLENCE & CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD WINNERS The awards ceremony was held on August 20, 2026 at Cleveland Browns Stadium
SMACNA-Cleveland members Rick Gaughan, Dave Harvey, Sean Hamrick, Tommy Drakatos, Dan Czarnecki and Geoff Bradner (Halo Mechanical Company) won a Craftsmanship Award for exterior sheet metal work at John Carroll University’s AWE Center
Michael Stanley (Warren Roofing & Insulating) won a Craftsmanship Award for the TPO roofing system at Bolivar Road Apartments
Vernon Tomblin (Geauga Mechanical) won a Craftsmanship Award for interior renovation and remodel work for DLR Group’s 13th floor renovation
John Wedow (Warren Roofing & Insulating) won a Craftsmanship Award for work on St. Ignatius High School’s back quad expansion
The 2026 Apprentice of the Year Award was presented to Sheet Metal Worker Chris Bowes, Sheet Metal Workers | Local 33
LOCAL 33 SHEET METAL WORKERS
SMACNA - CLEVELAND | 440-877-3500 | www.smacnacle.org SMART Local #33 | 216-267-1645 | www.smwlu33.org 6
2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
Van Aken District – Raye Apartments
The Building Excellence Awards included categories for new construction over $25 million; new construction between $10 and $25 million; new construction under $10 million; renovation construction over $10 million; renovation construction under $10 million; plus heavy highway & civil. The 2026 Building Excellence and Craftsmanship Awards winners include:
Davey Tree SEED Campus
Davey Tree SEED Campus
that showcases sustainable construction and supports environmental research and education.
Van Aken District – Raye Apartments Gilbane Building Company
New Construction Over $25 Million Gilbane Building Company completed Raye, a 405,439-square-foot, two-tower development that anchors Phase II of the Van Aken District redevelopment in Shaker Heights. The project included construction of 15- and 18-story residential towers connected by sky bridges, site development, structured parking and integration with the surrounding mixed-use district. The crew overcame unexpected underground water main failures, regional concrete shortages and global supply chain disruptions through proactive planning, strategic resequencing and close coordination with the city and trade partners. BIM, VDC and robotic site monitoring technology ensured precise coordination, exceptional quality control and seamless project execution from foundation through completion.
Ashtabula County Medical Center - Patient Care Tower Lake Erie Electric
The Ruhlin Company
New Construction Between $10 and $25 Million
The Ruhlin Company delivered the Davey Tree SEED Campus, a 69,900-square-foot, Net Zero-ready education and research facility featuring Ohio’s largest structural insulated panel system (SIPS) installation, a 650-kilowatt solar field, four research greenhouses and a 144-foot precast bridge. Despite challenging soils, winter construction and complex site conditions, Ruhlin created a landmark campus
Lake Erie Electric completed the electrical work for Ashtabula County Medical Center’s 130,000-squarefoot, four-story patient care tower and emergency services expansion, adding 130 patient beds, five operating rooms, bariatric treatment rooms, a helipad and critical care facilities as part of an $80 million healthcare investment. One of the project’s greatest challenges was seamlessly integrating new electrical systems with the existing hospital while
New Construction Over $25 Million
Ashtabula County Medical Center - Patient Care Tower
maintaining uninterrupted patient care and critical operations. The Lake Erie team also executed complex around-the-clock system changeovers and safely installed rooftop generators under challenging site conditions, delivering the project on time and under budget. The successful completion of this expansion enhanced the hospital’s capacity to deliver critical care while meeting the growing healthcare needs of the community.
Cedar Point Siren’s Curse
The Great Lakes Construction Company New Construction Between $10 and $25 Million
The Great Lakes Construction Company earned this award for delivering the civil and structural construction of Cedar Point’s newest coaster, Siren’s Curse. The team installed 904 steel piles, 75 sheet pile cofferdams, 1,500 precision-set anchor bolts and more than 4,000 cubic yards of reinforced concrete while constructing the park’s first underground roller coaster, just 100 feet from Lake Erie. Working below the water table, the team successfully overcame accelerated procurement, compressed construction schedules, continuous dewatering and complex waterproofing requirements to safely deliver one of 7
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
BUILDING EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Cedar Point’s most technically challenging attractions. This project stands as a remarkable achievement in engineering excellence, craftsmanship and construction innovation.
Sherwin-Williams Headquarters
Sherwin-Williams Headquarters Waterproofing RAM Construction Contractors New Construction Under $10 Million
RAM Construction Services delivered the critical waterproofing and building envelope systems for the Sherwin-Williams Headquarters in downtown Cleveland, a high-profile, mission-critical development requiring exceptional precision and coordination. Work included installing air barrier systems, traffic and equipment platform coatings, and comprehensive sealant systems that are essential to the building’s long-term durability and performance. Facing aggressive schedules and exacting architectural standards, RAM pioneered the use of a full-scale in-place mock-up that streamlined approvals, minimized rework, improved coordination with adjacent trades, and established consistent installation standards across the project.
Cedar Point Siren’s Curse
surface finishes – including concrete pavers, wood decking, river rock and synthetic turf – to create a seamless, level outdoor environment across multiple elevations. Through innovative adjustable pedestal systems, precise layout planning and continuous coordination between crews and trades, the team overcame the challenges of complex transitions, varying roof elevations and multiple finish materials to deliver a rooftop space that performs as well as it looks.
a challenging U-shaped footprint and ongoing work by multiple trades, the team delivered a visually striking façade that defines the building’s character and performance.
Geneva Public Library Branch Expansion
Geneva Public Library Branch Expansion
Regency Construction Services
Library Lofts
Bolivar Road Apartments
Brookpark Design Builders
New Construction Under $10 Million
Bolivar Road Apartments TPO Roofing System Warren Roofing & Insulating
New Construction Under $10 Million The Bolivar Road Apartments project transformed a sloped rooftop into a high-end amenity space by combining a high-performance TPO roofing system with a custom paver and pedestal deck surrounding a rooftop pool. The installation integrated multiple 8
Brookpark Design Builders installed the highperformance exterior building envelope for Library Lofts, featuring aluminum composite panels, Kingspan insulated panels, a fiber cement rainscreen system and cold-formed subframing with mineral wool insulation. Brookpark used 3D laser scanning to achieve exact field measurements and installed the fiber cement façade eight inches off the building to create architectural depth across the upper nine floors. Despite limited staging space,
New Construction Under $10 Million
Regency transformed the Ashtabula County District Library’s Geneva Branch with a major renovation and expansion that created new educational and community spaces, including a teen area, makerspace with 3-D printers, demonstration kitchen, study rooms, community room, indoor reading porch and outdoor reading plaza. The project also renovated the children’s area, replaced the entire roof and upgraded mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection systems, while the library continued serving the community. Through innovative construction solutions, meticulous self-performed carpentry and close coordination with multiple ownerdirected contractors, Regency’s crews overcame 2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
Library Lofts
complex scheduling and design challenges to deliver a modern library that expands educational opportunities for generations to come.
Cuyahoga County Public Works North Main Street Bridge
The Great Lakes Construction Company New Construction Under $10 Million
The Great Lakes Construction Co. reconstructed the North Main Street Bridge in the Village of Chagrin Falls, replacing the aging structure with precast and cast-in-place concrete arches, new concrete headwalls, rehabilitated retaining walls, decorative railings, sidewalks and a resurfaced roadway, while preserving the bridge’s historic character. The GLC crew developed an innovative system to install massive precast arch sections from a single access point and engineered a custom formwork solution when no commercial system could accommodate the bridge’s changing arch geometry. The project’s exceptional collaboration earned the ODOT Don Conaway Partnering Award, recognizing the outstanding coordination between the contractor, county engineers and the Village of Chagrin Falls.
Cleveland Clinic Mentor Hospital
Cleveland Clinic Mentor Hospital Lake Erie Electric
New Construction Under $10 Million The Lake Erie Electric team delivered the electrical systems for the $86 million, 96,000-square-foot Cleveland Clinic Mentor Hospital, featuring four operating rooms, a 19-bed emergency department, 34 inpatient rooms, advanced imaging and
Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Dam
administrative spaces. The L.E.E crew overcame critical manufacturing delays by collaborating with equipment manufacturers, the construction manager and the owner to keep construction moving. They also prefabricated 100% of the large conduit offsite, creating exceptional quality and aesthetics throughout the electrical equipment rooms and public spaces. Their innovation, collaboration and commitment to excellence helped deliver a worldclass healthcare facility on time and within budget.
Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Dam
The Great Lakes Construction Company Renovation Construction Over $10 Million
Great Lakes Construction rehabilitated the nearly 100-year-old Hinckley Dam, strengthening the historic structure to meet modern safety and flood protection standards. The project raised the earthen embankment, reconstructed the 150-foot spillway, installed modern monitoring systems and dredged Hinckley Lake while maintaining river flow and keeping the Cleveland Metroparks Reservation open to the public. Through innovative water-control methods, the GLC team overcame complex hydraulic, environmental and public access challenges to safely deliver this critical infrastructure project on schedule. The completed project strengthens critical infrastructure while preserving one of the Cleveland Metroparks’ most valued recreational destinations.
Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio, STEM Center of Excellence Regency Construction Services New Construction Under $10 Million
Regency Construction Services served as Construction Manager at Risk for the new 7,700-square-foot, three-story STEM Center of Excellence at Camp Ledgewood, creating a state-of-the-art learning environment featuring science labs, a makerspace,
GSNEO Stem Center of Excellence
tech lab, observatory with a retractable roof and telescope, demonstration spaces and sustainable site features designed to inspire future generations in STEM. The project incorporated innovative elements, including biomimicry-inspired architecture, a living green roof, a solar flower, advanced water retention systems and interactive educational technology. Facing evolving client requests, custom-designed building components and the complex installation of a precision-aligned observatory telescope, Regency overcame each challenge through proactive planning, technical expertise and close collaboration to deliver a one-of-a-kind educational facility.
Cleveland Institute of Music Kulas Hall Renovation Turner Construction Company
Renovation Construction Over $10 Million Turner Construction transformed the Cleveland Institute of Music’s 25,000-square-foot Kulas Hall into a world-class, 450-seat performance venue with acoustically adjustable systems, reshaped performance walls, custom millwork, theatrical lighting, motorized rigging, advanced audio technology and new catwalk systems. Turner’s crews achieved exceptional craftsmanship through acoustic installations where even the slightest deviation affected sound performance. By overcoming the 9
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
Cuyahoga County Public Works North Main Street Bridge Rehabilitation
challenges of constructing a professional performance venue within an active music school and coordinating highly specialized acoustic systems, Turner delivered a premier concert hall that provides students, faculty and visiting artists with one of the finest performance and rehearsal spaces in the region.
Northern Ohio Blanket Mills
Northern Ohio Blanket Mills Historic Renovation Ozanne Construction Company
Renovation Construction Over $10 Million
Progressive Field
Progressive Field Ballpark Renovations OCP Contractors
Renovation Construction Over $10 Million OCP transformed Progressive Field while the stadium remained operational throughout the baseball season, delivering complex structural framing, custom millwork, ornate metal ceilings, air and vapor barrier systems, and premium player facilities 10
Cleveland Institute of Music’s Kulas Hall
under an aggressive schedule. The team overcame structural constraints with engineered framing solutions, installed 800-pound player lockers with just ¾-inch of clearance using a custom installation method, and achieved exceptional craftsmanship through extensive mock-ups and precision finishes. The completed renovation enhances the game-day experience and ensures Progressive Field remains a premier destination for Cleveland baseball fans.
rooms, an architectural model shop, an interior finishes library and a central hub. The Turner team overcame the challenges of renovating an occupied historic building while executing complex stretch-fabric ceilings, exposed acoustical systems and integrated lighting and MEP installations. Through extensive mock-ups, detailed planning and expert craftsmanship, Turner delivered a modern workplace that reflects DLR Group’s creative vision and showcases excellence in construction.
DLR Hanna Building 13th Floor Renovations
DLR Hanna Building 13th Floor Renovations Turner Construction Company
Renovation Construction Under $10 Million Turner Construction transformed a 16,500-squarefoot space within Cleveland’s historic Hanna Building into DLR Group’s new office, featuring collaborative workspaces, advanced conference
CBRE Workplace 360 Interior Renovation
CBRE Workplace 360 Interior Renovation Higley Construction
Renovation Construction Under $10 Million The CBRE Workplace360 project transformed the 8th floor of Cleveland’s Oswald Building into a 2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
Ozanne Construction transformed the historic Blanket Mills into 60 affordable housing units, preserving a landmark while revitalizing Cleveland’s Clark-Fulton neighborhood. The team stabilized the deteriorated 112,000-square-foot structure, reinforced historic trusses, rebuilt the stairwell, removed an unstable water tower and salvaged materials from the neighboring Piano Building to preserve the building’s historic character. Through drone inspections, creative structural solutions and close coordination with preservation agencies, the team overcame severe structural deterioration, historic tax credit requirements and security challenges to deliver a high-quality community asset that will serve Cleveland residents for generations.
N.E.O.R.S.D – West Creek Veterans Basin
ODOT US-6 Bridge
in a heavily traveled public park, the Independence team successfully managed complex environmental requirements, strict SWPPP compliance, public safety and challenging site conditions. As a result of Independence’s teamwork, innovative field coordination, outstanding craftsmanship and a strong commitment to safety, the project was completed to the highest standards, delivering long-term resilience, environmental sustainability and lasting benefits to the surrounding community.
corridor by completely replacing the bridge superstructure while preserving the scenic Chagrin River below. The Ruhlin team managed difficult conditions such as working 75 feet above the river with no access permitted from beneath the bridge. The team developed innovative construction methods to overcome significant logistical challenges. By using articulating boom lifts and repurposing an under-bridge inspection unit, crews safely completed complex demolition, structural steel erection and pier rehabilitation without disturbing the river. The project also incorporated weathering steel and E5 internal cure concrete technology, reducing long-term maintenance, construction waste and environmental impact while delivering a durable bridge that will serve the community for decades. ■
ODOT US-6 Bridge The Ruhlin Company
John Carroll University AWE Center
John Carroll University AWE Center
Heavy Highway & Civil
The ODOT LAK-6-4.61 Bridge Rehabilitation transformed a critical Lake County transportation
Warren Roofing & Insulating
Renovation Construction Under $10 Million John Carroll University’s Athletic, Wellness & Event (AWE) Center project featured a custom architectural sheet metal system with .080 ACM soffit panels installed over an insulated substrate. Warren fabricated and installed a complex integrated downspout system that routed around a structural column while maintaining both performance and architectural intent. The completed project enhances the AWE Center with a distinctive architectural feature that combines exceptional craftsmanship, long-term durability and a refined, high-end appearance.
N.E.O.R.S.D West Creek Veterans Basin
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE BUILDING EXCELLENCE & CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD WINNERS
Independence Excavating Heavy Highway & Civil
Independence Excavating restored a critical stormwater basin, improving flood protection and water quality within the West Creek watershed. The project included over 50,000 cubic yards of excavation, complete basin reconstruction, new storm infrastructure and wetland restoration while maintaining continuous stormwater flow within an active system. Working 11
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
modern, LEED-certified workplace featuring complex architectural elements, premium finishes, custom millwork, specialty lighting and integrated building technology. The Higley team executed intricate curved soffits, arched openings, serpentine ceiling baffles and a custom Banker Wire installation while overcoming existing building constraints, compressed schedules and limited material access within an occupied high-rise. The completed project delivers a dynamic workplace that supports collaboration, flexibility and employee wellness while showcasing the highest level of architectural design and construction quality.
Congratulations TO ALL
AWARD RECIPIENTS
Celebrating excellence in construction and the outstanding projects that build our communities.
Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Dam Hinckley, OH North Main Street Bridge Chagrin Falls, OH Business Manager: Neil Giering Executive Board Recording Secretary Business Agent Ray Kashubeck Business Manager: Ryan McCafferty Dave Inman Ben Schell Ryan McCafferty Business Manager: Neil Giering Neal Ginley Business Manager: NeilNeil Giering Business Manager: Giering President Business Agent Recording Secretary Executive Board Dan Gallagher Executive Board Tom Jubeck Executive Board Executive Board Recording Secretary Business Agent Recording Secretary Business Agent Mike Hall Mike Hall Jon Geier Pat O’Boyle Recording Secretary Business Agent Pat O’Boyle Don Ols Ray Kashubeck Tom Jubeck Dave Inman Ryan McCafferty Ray Kashubeck Kevin BenFinnerty Schell Ray Kashubeck Kevin Finnerty Russ Demagall Dave Inman Vice BenPresident Schell Training Director Ryan McCafferty President Don Ols Ginley Pat O’Boyle DanNeal Gallagher Joe Calarco President Ryan McCafferty President PatReilly Cook Dan Gallagher Paul Arnold Neal Ginley Jim Russ Demagall Tom Jubeck Tom Hinojosa President Pat Cook Julia Stasiak Pat Cook Mike Hall Mike Hall Dan Gallagher Pat O’Boyle Don Ols Jim Reilly Tom Jubeck Hinojosa Vice President Ray Tom Kashubeck Vice President Mike Hall Russ Demagall Vice President Training Director Training Director Training Director Pat O’Boyle Don Ols Marty Somerville DanPat Gallagher Cook JeffJeff Gulley Paul Arnold Gulley Russ Demagall Vice President Training Director
Pat Cook
Cedar Point Siren’s Curse Sandusky, OH
Business Manager: Neil Giering Business Agent Tom Jubeck Don Ols Russ Demagall Mike Hall Ray Kashubeck
Recording Secretary Kevin Finnerty President
Executive Board Ryan McCafferty Pat O’Boyle Tom Hinojosa Jim Reilly Training Director Jeff Gulley
Pat Cook SAFE. CAPABLE. EFFICIENT. Vice President www.GreatLakesWay.com Dan Gallagher
Paul Arnold
CONGRATULATIONS
TO THE BUILDING EXCELLENCE & CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD HONOREES — PROUD SPONSOR 100+ years guiding contractors through complex tax, reporting, and industry challenges.
Business Manager: Neil Giering Business Agent Tom Jubeck Don Ols Russ Demagall Mike Hall Ray Kashubeck
12
Recording Secretary Kevin Finnerty President Pat Cook Vice President
Business Manager: Neil Giering Executive Board Ryan McCafferty Pat O’Boyle Tom Hinojosa Jim Reilly Training Director Jeff Gulley
Business Agent Tom Jubeck Don Ols Russ Demagall Mike Hall Ray Kashubeck
MEADENMOORE.COM
Recording Secretary Kevin Finnerty President Pat Cook Vice President
Advisory | Assurance | Forensic Accounting | Tax | Wealth Dan Center Dan Gallagher Gallagher
Business Manager: Neil Giering Executive Board Recording Secretary Business Agent Ray Kashubeck Business Manager: Neil Giering Dave Inman Ben Schell Ryan McCafferty Executive Board Neal Ginley Recording Secretary Business Agent President DanKashubeck Gallagher Ray Tom Jubeck Dave Inman Ben MikeSchell Hall
Executive Board Ryan McCafferty Pat O’Boyle Tom Hinojosa Jim Reilly Training Director Jeff Gulley
2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARDS Craftsmanship Awards honor individuals representing each of the trades affiliated with the Cleveland Building & Construction Trades Council (CBCTC). Judges evaluate work according to a number of metrics, including uniqueness, precision and attention to detail, difficulty, visual aesthetics, level of technical skill and experience required.
Flexjet Owner Service Center Cleveland Institute of Music’s Kulas Hall
Nick Urso, Tom Langel and William Mathys (Steel Framing Crew) Renovation work for Cleveland Institute of Music’s Kulas Hall Renovation
Kyle Hofer, Josh Sixt, Larry Finley, Brandon Frier, Steve Juris and Erik Graff Carpentry work for the Flexjet Owner Service Center hangar conversion
Panzica Construction
Forest City Erectors
John Carroll University AWE Center
Davey Tree Company SEED Campus 750 Prospect East Apartments
Corey Snay, Matt Fry and Marlin Thomas (Masonry Crew) Exterior masonry work at 750 Prospect E. Apartments
Chris King, Jamie Madigan, Jason Phelps and Derek Orr and Steven Cody (Exterior Development Crew)
Rick Gaughan, Dave Harvey, Sean Hamrick, Tommy Drakatos, Dan Czarnecki and Geoff Bradner Interior and exterior sheet metal work at John Carroll University’s Athletic Wellness & Event Center
Halo Mechanical
Site work for Davey Tree Company SEED Campus
The Ruhlin Company
Cleveland Building Restoration
DLR Group Hub Area St. Ignatius High School
John Wedow
Scott Miles
Andy Hampton, Timothy Brunkala, Lawrence Panik, Rob Abfall and Matthew Abfall (Water Relief Crew)
St. Ignatius High School’s back quad expansion
Interior carpentry work for the DLR Group Hub Area renovation
Sewer and regulator work for N.E.O.R.S.D Sewer and Regulator Project
Warren Roofing & Insulating
Turner Construction Company
Independence Excavating 13
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
N.E.O.R.S.D Sewer and Regulator Project
Rich Friel and Tristan Rendfleisch (Finish Carpentry Crew) Carpentry and millwork for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s SNL 50-Year Exhibit
Higley Construction
GSNEO STEM Center for Excellence
Joe Geib, Kody Schutz, Max Tousley, Hannah Brown, Corrine Stillman and Denver Cody Interior carpentry and expansion work at the Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio STEM Center for Excellence
Regency Construction Services Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s SNL 50-Year Exhibit
James Racheck, Antonio Estrada, Alex Marti, Adam Wilhelm, Mike Skufca and Rich Gnad Self-performed carpentry work at the Geneva Public Library expansion project
Regency Construction Services
Cleveland Clinic Foundation’s Cole Eye Institute
Siren’s Curse at Cedar Point
Dave Drum
Tim Winiarski (Exterior Construction Crew)
Interior plumbing and expansion work at Cleveland Clinic Foundation’s Cole Eye Institute
Exterior construction work for Cedar Point Siren’s Curse
Gorman-Lavelle Corporation
The Great Lakes Construction Company
University School’s Middle School
Rick Minarchik, Chad Broud, Kyle Tracy, Grant Barber, Jacob Anielski, Tristan Rendfleisch, Travis Dean, Katie Maier and Matt Powalie
The Hive & Honey Bolivar Road Apartments
Ken Burr
Michael Stanley
Interior carpentry and expansion work at University School’s Middle School expansion
Interior and exterior work for The Hive & Honey millwork installation
TPO roofing system at Bolivar Road Apartments
Higley Construction
Marous Brothers Construction
Warren Roofing & Insulating
14
2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
Geneva Public Library
Rich Waldo Panel and wood shading fin work at Davey Tree’s SEED Campus
Marous Brothers Construction
DLR Group Cleveland Studio
Vernon Tomblin Interior renovation and remodel work for DLR Group’s 13th floor renovation
Geauga Mechanical
Mike Gallagher Millwork and architectural work for Rocket Arena’s HIPP Club renovation
Marous Brothers Construction
Progressive Field
Joe McElroy
Hahn Loeser & Parks Cleveland Offices
Tom Lance and Steve Shahan
Exterior framing work for Progressive Field’s structural framing project
Interior carpentry work for Hahn Loeser & Parks’ gathering area renovation
OCP Contractors
Turner Construction Company
Congratulations to All Participants & Honorees of the
80 PU
I
TH
RS
CELE
TING 80 Y RA
EA
B
2026 BUILDING EXCELLENCE & CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARDS
N
O
www.propertiesmag.com
G
ANNIVERSARY
F
BLISH
SIGN UP FOR A COMPLIMENTARY SUBSCRIPTION! Receive the digital edition of Northeast Ohio Properties each month for FREE! Subscribe at www.propertiesmag.com 15
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
Rocket Arena’s HIPP Club
Davey Tree’s SEED Campus
Congratulations to Tom Langel and Nick Urso (Ironworkers Local #17), recipients of a 2026 Craftsmanship Award for Kulas Hall at Cleveland Institute of Music
FOREST CITY ERECTORS 8200 Boyle Pkwy. Twinsburg, OH 44087 330-425-7185
5201 Grant Ave. Cleveland, OH 44125 330-425-7185
1010 Marion Avenue SW Canton, OH 44707 330-754-6370
www.forestcityerectors.com
The Skyline 776
Jeff Hradek, Greg Janasik and Vince Gallagher (Exterior Crew) Exterior panel installation at The Skyline 776
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION
Brookpark Design Builders
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2026 CEA BUILDING & CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD NOMINEES. Your dedication builds stronger communities.
St. Ignatius High School
Trent Bell and Phil Biagiotti (Special Renovation Crew) Structure and expansion work at St. Ignatius High School
ODOT US-6 Bridge
hahnlaw.com
parksconstructionconsultants.com
Mark Morgan Construction work for ODOT US-6 bridge deck
The Ruhlin Company ■
16
2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
All photos provided courtesy of award recipients
Turner Construction Company
Congratulations to all the Building Excellence & Craftmanship Award Winners, especially 2026 Apprentice of the Year QUENTIN FORBES
BUILDING LABORERS’ LOCAL 310 Business Manager: Terence P. Joyce Secretary/Treasurer: Thomas Byrne Field Representatives: Kevin Clegg, Sean Campbell, Michael Finley, John Soeder
3250 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44115 216-881-5901 | www.local310.com
17
Photo by Alaina Battle
SALUTING EXEMPLARY WORK At this year’s program, 26 individuals were honored with an Apprentice of the Year award to recognize exceptional performance from each of the affiliated trades within the Cleveland Building & Construction Trades Council.
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR Apprentice of the Year Awards honor outstanding apprentices from each of the CBCTC affiliated trades, recognizing exemplary performance.
Cade Wilson
Boilermakers Local 744
David Shaw
Bricklayers BAC Local 23
Graham Rothgery
James Embrescia
Electrician (IBEW) Local 38
Emma Peck
Electricians (IBEW) Local 673
Justin Kroger
Glaziers (IUPAT) Local 181
Aaron Dowell
Heat & Frost Insulators Local 3
Devon Donnelly
Bricklayers BAC Local 23
Iron Workers Local 17
Nicholas Veauthier
Quentin Forbes
Bricklayers BAC Local 23
Brian Breeler
Carpenters (CMRCC)
Keith Gregg
Carpenters (CMRCC)
Zyeno Gonzales
Carpenters (CMRCC)
Jarrison Moore
Cement Mason (OPCMIA) 18
Christopher Sleasman
Operating Engineers Local 18
Jason Carpenter
Painters (IUPAT) Local 707
Keeshawn Roberts
Painters (IUPAT) Local 707
Evan Martin
Pipefitters Local 120
Jimmy Kilbane
Laborers Local 310
Pipefitters Local 120
Find Expanded Coverage Online
Plasterers (OPCMIA) Local 526
Logan Urban
Brenden O’Brien Carpenters (CMRCC)
Peter Schulz
Laborers Local 860
For information on all sponsors and partners, photo galleries and to view a collection of award recognition videos, visit the dedicated Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards website at www.clevelandcraftsmanship.com.
Justin Schneider Plumbers Local 55
Joseph Mcmillan
Roofers & Waterproofers Local 44
Chris Bowes
Sheet Metal Workers Local 33
Johnathon Roberts
Tapers (IUPAT) Local 505 ■ 2026 Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards
CAA MEMBERS
Diverse member businesses in white
Embracing and strengthening business operations and relationships to improve diversity, inclusion, and equity in the Northeast Ohio Construction Industry. Our members include construction companies, specialty contractors, suppliers, professional, service firms and owners.
– all of whom are among the best in the industry.
CAA PROGRAMS CONTRACTING Support CAA members via business development mentorship and capacity building. Strengthen relationships with public and private owners and CEA members. EDUCATION Support education and training to enhance diverse companies. EMPLOYMENT (WORKFORCE) Partner and support diverse construction management and trade workforce.
Adrian Maldonado & Associates The AKA Team, Inc. Higley Construction A.I.R Concrete Solutions Alert Pioneer Plumbing Alternalite Electric, Inc Bialosky Cleveland Bolton Pratt Company, Inc. CBIZ / Marcum Chas Phipps Cleveland Building Restoration Cleveland Cement Contractors Cleveland Drones Cleveland Port Authority Cleveland State University Construction Smith Cook Paving & Construction Cortez Construction Cosmos Technology Cuyahoga Community College Donley’s, Inc. Dunlop & Johnston Eagle Abatement & Demolition Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland First Invest Inc. Forest City Erectors, Inc. Frantz Ward, LLP Fritz Consulting G. Stephens, Inc. Gilbane Building Company Gilbert & Gilbert Construction and Masonry Great Lakes Construction Co. Greenies Landscaping Hahn Loeser Halle's Engineering & Design Hatzel and Buehler
HR Construction Services Independence Excavating, Inc. International Construction Solutions Irizar Electric Kameron Anthony Construction Lawler Construction Legacy Piping M. Rivera Construction Co. Meaden & Moore MetroHealth Mont Surfaces Next Generation Norris Brothers North Coast Concrete North Star Contracting Ohio TurnKey Ozanne Construction Company Panzica Construction Co. Precision Environmental Regency Construction Services Resitech RL Cole Enterprises RL Hill Management Rycon Construction The Ruhlin Company Shook Construction Co. Specialized Construction Inc The Cora Ruth Group T.H. Martin TSG Interior Tucker-Grubbs Construction Turner Construction Company VMI Whiting-Turner Contracting W. Paris Electrical WTD Mechanical 2B Engineering
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION GO TO: www.contractorsassistance.org Tommy Farmer | CAA President