2024 Quarter 4 Recipients
AIMAD DARMOUCH
Orlando
Serving as Foreman out of Orlando, Aimad Darmouch is a wonderful asset to our team, known for his quality of work and attention to detail. Aimad moved to the States from Morocco, where he grew up inspired by his father’s work in the construction industry. Drawn to the idea of building something from the ground up, Aimad moved to the United States to pursue the American dream. His first professional and stable career opportunity in the U.S. came from W. W. Gay, where he started as a pre-apprentice. Through hard work and determination, Aimad worked his way up to his current leadership role as a Foreman.
Aimad’s passion for construction began in childhood, watching his father work in the field. He enjoyed using his hands and took pride in seeing projects come to life, sparking a lifelong interest in the industry. Since joining W. W. Gay six years ago, Aimad has made significant strides both professionally and personally.
As a Foreman, Aimad oversees daily operations, assigns tasks, and ensures projects remain on schedule. Known for his reliability and honesty, Aimad emphasizes strong leadership and organizational skills, which he has honed throughout his career. For him, the camaraderie and teamwork at W. W. Gay are what he enjoys most. Collaborating with his team and building together serve as his greatest motivators.
Some of Aimad’s most challenging yet rewarding experiences have been working on hospital projects. These jobs often require late-night hours and precise scheduling to avoid interrupting hospital functionality. Aimad’s ability to navigate these complexities with skill and professionalism has been instrumental to his success. Aimad attributes his achievements to strong communication and organizational skills.
Working around patients and strict hospital schedules is no easy task. To overcome these challenges, Aimad exaggerates the importance of adapting and planning to ensure that his team delivers high-quality work without disruptions. Since joining W. W. Gay, Aimad has always gone the extra mile to ensure job success.
Receiving the Forging the Way Award is a significant honor for Aimad. It represents the recognition of his hard work and the impact he has made on the company. “I take pride that people appreciate my work,” Aimad shared, reflecting on the award. Aimad’s journey with W. W. Gay is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and teamwork.
In My Own Words...
Proudest Moment
Being recognized and congratulated for placing #1 plumber in Florida as s 5th year apprentice during the United Association Apprenticeship Contest across the state of Florida representing Local 803.
Define What Success Means To You
Success is consistent growth, learning and developing my skills to make my job easier and growing my professional network.
Core Value That Best Describes You
Dedication. Dedication is the value that best defines me—fully committing my time and energy to my work. Going the extra mile, whether through additional effort or doing job-related preparation at home, makes a significant difference. It allows me to stay ahead and be better prepared for the next day.
BOBBY CRAWFORD
Jacksonville
We are thrilled to honor Bobby Crawford, General Superintendent out of Jacksonville, as a recipient of the Forging the Way Award. Bobby’s unwavering dedication, work ethic, and leadership embody the values that make W.W. Gay a cornerstone in our industry.
Bobby’s career with W.W. Gay began right after high school, thanks to the influence of a friend’s father who introduced him to the company. Growing up in McKlinney, Bobby was always drawn to hands-on work, spending his youth outdoors and honing the skills that would later define his career. After a month as a pre-apprentice, he entered a five-year apprenticeship program, setting the foundation for a remarkable 25-year tenure.
From his first 12 years on a service truck, to his current position as General Superintendent overseeing projects at Baptist, St. Vincent’s, Orange Park, Shands UF North, and Mayo, Bobby has continuously expanded his expertise. For the past four years, he has been a vital leader in the healthcare department, ensuring projects run smoothly and efficiently.
When asked what he enjoys most about his work, Bobby’s answer “The people.” Known for his exceptional communication skills, Bobby builds strong relationships with both customers and colleagues. He treats everyone with respect, leading by example and fostering a team-oriented environment.
His commitment to quality and attention to detail is unmatched. Bobby’s philosophy is clear: “We are not in the business of halfway work.” This mindset drives him to deliver exceptional results on every project, a standard he shares with the younger generation of apprentices he mentors.
Bobby’s role isn’t without its challenges. From navigating the complexities of working in healthcare facilities, such as scheduling and working around patients, to overcoming the unique hurdles of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bobby has shown resilience and adaptability. He thrives in high-pressure situations, demonstrating his problem-solving abilities and dedication to excellence.
Bobby’s role isn’t without its challenges. From navigating the complexities of working in healthcare facilities, such as scheduling and working around patients, to overcoming the unique hurdles of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bobby has shown resilience and adaptability. He thrives in high-pressure situations, demonstrating his problem-solving abilities and dedication to excellence.
Bobby’s colleagues describe him as a “go-getter” who goes above and beyond to ensure every job is done right. Whether stepping up to support project managers by ordering materials or helping teams troubleshoot challenges, he consistently delivers exceptional service. His commitment to stewardship is evident in his willingness to share knowledge and assist others, even after hours or on weekends.
Congratulations, Bobby! Thank you for everything you do to inspire and uplift those around you.
In My Own Words...
Proudest Moment
When we did the covid work for Baptist Hospital.
Challenges that arise on daily basis. What Motivates You
When a job is completed on time, within budget, safely, and the customer is happy. Define What Success Means To You
Dedication. I am dedicated to getting the job done and doing it the right way. Core Value That Best Describes You
FRANK BRABHAM
Gainesville
With an extraordinary 42-year career, Frank Brabham out of our Gainesville office stands as a shining example of hard work, and resilience, and a mentor, passing knowledge to future generations. Frank’s journey with W. W. Gay began in 1981, just after graduating high school. Inspired by his father, an electrician, Frank took his first step into the industry as a laborer at the University of Florida’s animal science vet school. This foundational role marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership with the company.
He soon embraced an HVAC service apprenticeship in Gainesville, drawn by a natural aptitude for mechanical systems and a love for working with his hands. Over four decades later, Frank continues to embody the company’s values, describing W. W. Gay as more than a workplace but a family that gives him purpose and pride.
As an HVAC Service Technician, Frank’s day-to-day responsibilities range from troubleshooting advanced systems to mentoring apprentices, he thrives in the challenge of diagnosing and repairing increasingly complex commercial equipment. Frank’s knowledge of electrical systems and hydronic equipment has been crucial to his success. Known for his “gift” of identifying problems within hydronic systems.
One of his most memorable projects involved replacing a large unit that served hospital operating rooms. Timing is critical when it comes to working in hospitals and Frank and his team installed temporary units to ensure the hospital’s critical functions remain uninterrupted. He acknowledges the challenges of adapting to computer-driven equipment and the fast pace of technological change in the industry, but his commitment to continuous learning has helped him stay ahead.
Frank has found joy in sharing his knowledge with younger colleagues. His role as a mentor allows him to impart lessons learned through decades of experience, emphasizing the importance of quality workmanship, integrity, and adaptability to ever-evolving technologies. “Teaching young people is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” Frank shares. “It’s about ensuring that the knowledge I’ve gained doesn’t stop with me but continues to benefit the next generation.”
Frank credits his success to timeless principles: quality, integrity, and accountability. “Being a man of your word and standing behind your work not only builds trust but also makes the job easier,” he says. Receiving the Forging the Way Award holds deep meaning for Frank. “It’s humbling to know that people notice and care,” he says.
Outside of work, Frank enjoys fishing and is actively involved in his church, keeping faith at the center of his life. He believes his career is not just what he does but who he is—a calling that has shaped his identity and impacted those around him.
Congratulations to Frank Brabham for this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your decades of service, mentorship, and dedication to excellence!
In My Own Words...
Proudest Moment
During a project involving a refrigerated warehouse, where we handled all the refrigeration work, I had the chance to collaborate with a young and promising Project Manager. As the project wrapped up, he asked if I’d be interested in meeting his sister. Little did I know that moment would change my life forever. That introduction led to Tonya, my beautiful wife, and we’ve now been happily married for 23 years. If it weren’t for that job and that project, I might never have met her, and my life would have been completely different.
What Motivates You
At this stage in my career I am excited to see our young people succeed, and watch their talents grow and watch them advance in this company into management and other positions.
To me, success is being part of a talented and successful team that our service department in Gainesville is. Define What
Success Means To You
Core Value That Best Describes You
Dedication. I would say dedication after 42 years of service with this company. This isn’t just what I do, it’s who I am and what I’ve grown to love.