14th salute focuses on work force 2000

"Building Futures: Work Force 2000" is the theme of this year's Salute to Design & Construction.

Now in its 14th year, the salute recognizes the contributions of the design and construction industry to the economic well-being and quality of life of the Springfield area, according to a release from the Salute Council. The council represents 19 area construction and design organizations that sponsor the event.

With the work force 2000 emphasis of this year's salute, the Salute Council's member organizations are addressing the growing shortage of qualified young people entering the construction industry.

Salute week began Oct. 26 as teams of volunteer speakers made presentations to local students and discussed the diverse career opportunities available in the industry through specific training, the Salute Council stated.

City and county government officials turned out at the site of the Springfield Contractors Association's new building, 1313 N. Nias, Oct. 27 to issue proclamations recognizing salute week, and to highlight the economic impact of the design and construction industry on the area.

Other highlights of the week include the Faces and Places in Construction photo contest (see the winners on pages 32-37 of this issue) and the crowning event, the Salute to Design and Construction Banquet, scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 3 at the Clarion Hotel.

Douglas Jackson, AIA, of Butler Rosenbury & Partners, and Jim Anderson, of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, will serve as masters of ceremonies for the gala event.

According to the Salute Council, a number of awards and honors will be presented at the banquet. These include Springfield Contractors Association's Developer of the Year Award; the American Institute of Architects' Superintendent of the Year and Craftsman of the Year awards; the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers' Environmental Award; and a variety of scholarships, special awards and recognition of the Faces and Places in Construction photo contest winners.

[[In-content Ad]]