Mark Giebelhaus, an Arizona-based contractor, and Manuel Oroz, a Nevada-based apprentice, were honored with prestigious awards recognizing excellence in the plumbing industry at a ceremony hosted by Delta Faucet Company and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors–National Association (PHCC-NA) at the ISH trade show in Las Vegas.

Giebelhaus, owner of Marlin Mechanical Corporation in Phoenix, was recognized as Plumbing Contractor of the Year for his outstanding activity to further the plumbing industry. In addition to serving two terms as president of PHCC–Arizona, Giebelhaus has been active with the Arizona Subcontractors Council since its inception as a board member, legislative committee chairman and president. Arizona plumbing industry leaders describe him as a “truly dedicated individual.”

Three PHCC-NA contractors received runners-up honors: Frank Maddalon of Hamilton, N.J.; Milton Frank of Spring, Texas; and Mike Pfeffer of Rochester, Minn.

Oroz, of Las Vegas, was designated Plumbing Apprentice of the Year in recognition of his excellent work ethic and plumbing proficiency. Oroz is currently a fourth-year apprentice in the Joint Apprenticeship Training Program of the Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association of Nevada. His peers describe him as “very proficient in plumbing code knowledge.”

In honor of being named Contractor of the Year, Giebelhaus received a $5,000 check and a crystal sculpture, while the three runners-up each received a $1,000 check and a trophy. For being named Apprentice of the Year, Oroz received a $2,000 scholarship, a $500 check and a trophy.

At a related luncheon a few days earlier at the ISH show, Delta Faucet announced the recipients of its six $2,500 scholarships. Jordan Helget of Ellis, Kan.; Scott J. Lynch of North Grafton, Mass.; David Taecker of Watertown, S.D.; Bradley White of South Bend, Ind.; and Michael Leeds Heidler of Annapolis, Md., received scholarships as part of a four-year college education. Amy Sparacino of Las Vegas received a scholarship as part of a two-year college education.

“"The value of attracting, educating and training the next generation of talent in our industry is immeasurable—it ensures that we will be at the forefront of abilities and technology,” said Ray A. Kennedy, senior vice president for sales and marketing at Delta Faucet. “Awards programs from Delta seek to recognize individuals who are championing the very best qualities in their careers and to inspire up-and-comers.”