The Clay County Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Division honored the Northeast Florida Builders Association Apprentice Program last month for its role in promoting and increasing the economic base of the greater Clay area.
Citing the association’s contribution to the economy through residential construction initiatives that include the apprentice program, Mark Butterworth presented the award to Laura Laseman, NEFBA training director, and Mark Nechvatal, apprentice chairman.
NEFBA started the Apprentice Program in 1973 and the first graduating class in 1976 consisted of 15 graduates. This spring, 48 students graduated from the program. Four-year programs are offered in carpentry, electrical, heating and air-conditioning and plumbing.
“It was an honor for us to be recognized by the Clay County Chamber of Commerce,” said Nechvatal. “We are proud of our program and see the effect it has on the industry and the community every day. It’s good to receive an accolade from the Clay Chamber.”
Of NEFBA’s approximately 300 apprentice students, about half are in Clay County.
“The housing explosion in Clay County and surrounding counties and the lack of an adequate construction workforce strongly indicates the need for continuing and expanding training,” Laseman said. “The NEFBA program is a true partnership between the schools, the employers and the apprentices. It is a win-win situation for all.”
Nechvatal, general manager of Allstate Electrical Contractors, is a graduate of the apprentice program he now chairs.
Nechvatal pointed out that the apprentices are earning a competitive wage while learning a trade. In addition, apprentice-employees are offered first-time home-buyer scholarships after the successful completion of at least two years in the program.
Community involvement was another criterion for the award. In Clay County, NEFBA is involved in various charitable efforts including the Green Cove Springs Food Pantry, Project Graduation, Clay Behavioral Clinic and the Safe Animal Shelter. The association coordinated the construction of a battered women’s shelter and has just completed building a home for Habi-Clay, the Clay County affiliate of Habitat for Humanity.
Former state Commissioner of Education Jim Horne was the keynote speaker at the luncheon meeting.
The Northeast Florida Builders Association provides education, research, legislative representation, media relations, promotions and programs for its 1,500-plus builder and associate members. The association is celebrating 60 years of service to members and to the community through various charitable efforts.