Joeris employees, Hazael Mata and Rigo Rosas, traveled to Florida to represent ABC’s South Texas Chapter.
Hazael is enrolled in the ABC Apprenticeship Program, and Rigo Rosas is an instructor. In March, they headed to Florida for the ABC National Craft Championship, where Hazael competed.
What is the ABC National Craft Championship?
The 34th annual ABC National Craft Championship was held in Kissimmee, Florida, from March 15th-17th.
Two hundred of the nation’s top-performing craft professionals gathered at the Gaylord Palms conventions center to compete in sixteen competitions spanning twelve different crafts. The competition featured individual and team competitions with journey-level craft professionals from various crafts working on completing a joint project. Associated Builders and Contractors, a nationwide construction industry organization, organized the competition.
ABC National Carpentry Competitor – Hazael Shares What It’s Like to Compete
Hazael competed in the Carpentry competition, and although he did not place, he had a great experience.
“Overall, it was a really cool experience. It was really challenging and helped me gauge where I currently am with my skills.
Hazael Mata, Carpenter 1
“Overall, it was a really cool experience. It was really challenging and helped me gauge where I currently am with my skills. I admit that it was stressful. We had six hours to build a mockup demonstrating our skills in wood and metal framing, drywall, stair stringers, trim, and layout. We were given the blueprints for the project on Thursday at 8 AM and went to work. We were given the exact number of materials needed and the tools we would need. The entire time the judges and safety representatives were observing us, and we were not allowed to ask questions or get outside help.
One of the most challenging things was not having anyone to talk to when I got stressed or stumped with something.
Hazael Mata, Carpenter 1
One of the most challenging things was not having anyone to talk to when I got stressed or stumped with something. During a regular day, if you are confused about something, you can work on something else or talk with your superintendent of foreman, but at the competition, you must keep going and figure it out. I am grateful for the experience, and if Joeris sends someone to the competition next year, I would be happy to help prepare them and share my experience.”
An ABC Apprenticeship Instructor Reflects on the Competition’s Impact for Joeris
Rigo Rosas was impressed by Hazael’s determination and skill.
I believe that investing in our Carpenters will pay dividends for Joeris.
Rigo Rosas, Joeris Superintdent and ABC Apprenticeship Instructor
“I am really proud of Hazael. He did a great job and is very capable. This competition showed me that there is a lot of opportunity for more training. I believe that investing in our Carpenters will pay dividends for Joeris. I would love to see Joeris’ Superintendents and Senior Superintendents work together to build a carpenter training program that focuses on the hands-on skills demonstrated at the craft competition.”