Bob Berry, winner of the 2011 Top Trainer award in the Corporate Category, recently donated his scholarship to an up-and-coming safety professional in the Sims Crane & Equipment organization.
“Chris Peek was assigned to me as a safety assistant,” said Berry, who is director of safety for the Tampa, Fla., crane rental company. “It is nice to see a young person with drive and an attitude to learn.” In discussing with him the qualifications needed for a career in safety, Berry said he saw an opportunity to use the $2,000 scholarship he was awarded as a Top Trainer winner to help Peek develop his career.
Peek is currently enrolled in the Professional Construction certification at the University of South Florida. He attended the University of Tampa, majoring in business, and came to Sims Crane shortly after graduation in 2008.
Crane & Rigging Hot Line’s annual Top Trainer program recognizes trainers for having a positive impact on students, the work environment, or the industry. The Top Trainer program is endorsed by the Association of Crane & Rigging Professionals.
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2012 Top Trainer program. One winner will be recognized in each of two categories: Professional and Corporate. Trainers may be employed by training companies, contractors, crane rental firms, manufacturers, rigging suppliers, and other industry-related businesses.
For information, click on the Top Trainer logo at www.craneandrigginghotline.com. Entries must be submitted by August 31, 2012.
The first 30 people making nominations will be sent a 2012 Hot Line Crane Guide, which features data on crane models from more than 100 manufacturers. A great historical reference, information dates back to models from the 1950s. The Guide has a $30 retail value.
