(Left to right) Tony Picarazzi, executive director of National Energy Management Institute, Bob Bove, industry marketing manager for Testo, winner Chris Ruch, and John Hamilton, TABB COO, celebrate Ruch’s victory.

PHILADELPHIA - During this year’s May Testing, Adjusting and Balancing Bureau (TABB) Conference in Philadelphia, Christopher Ruch of Local Union #162 in Sacramento, Calif., was named the 2009 International TAB Contest winner. This award recognizes the knowledge and ability of individuals serving in first- through fourth-year apprenticeships that have not yet become journeymen members of the Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association (SMWIA). Ruch was presented his award, along with a starter set of analyzing equipment, by Bob Bove, industry marketing manager for Testo Inc.

“Testo became involved a number of years ago to award these outstanding students with a set of basic instrumentation to help the individual progress toward his or her journeyman status and help lay the foundation for best and better practices throughout the industry,” said Bove.

“Testo has been a willing supporter of the Apprentice Contest, and we congratulate Chris for his dedication and work. Testo looks forward to continuing our relationship with TABB and the International TAB Contest.”

The competition puts apprentices to the test to determine their skills in the performance of typical jobs or operations. Also tested are their abilities to work from typical drawings, sketches, plans, and specs; their abilities to create typical sketches for use when communicating their knowledge of specific subject matters; and their abilities to maximize the use of materials in a productive manner. Ruch exemplified superior qualifications in all areas and was selected as this year’s award recipient by the International Training Institute (ITI) Contest Committee, which is comprised of 14 members - seven representing labor and seven representing management.

For more information, visit www.tabbcertified.org.

Publication date:07/20/2009