Pennsylvania Teachers Recognized as Outstanding Educators

Two Pennsylvania educators were recognized by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Student Chapters as Outstanding Educators at an awards ceremony held during the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas on January 18.

Richard Druckenmiller, Carpentry Instructor at Pennsylvania College of Technology and James M. Gronski, Carpentry Instructor at York County School of Technology were awarded the 2003 NAHB Student Chapters Outstanding Educator Awards for the Four-Year University and Secondary/Two-Year categories, respectively.

Richard Druckenmiller has been an instructor at Pennsylvania College of Technology (Penn College) since 1990. During these 13 years, he has built strong and productive relationships between the construction industry and his students. In 1995, Druckenmiller founded the Penn College NAHB Student Chapter and has served as its Faculty Advisor since its inception. In addition, he spearheaded the efforts to develop on-line courses and in 2003 he was awarded a “Master Teacher Award.” Each year, Druckenmiller raises $5,000 for student awards and scholarships from area home builder associations.

Jim Gronski has more than 29 years experience teaching carpentry. During his tenure at York County School of Technology he has led his students’ participation in annual Remodelers’ and Spring Home Shows. Gronski has been the NAHB Student Chapter Advisor for York County School of Technology since 1996. He guided his team to a first place showing in the NAHB Student Chapter Competitions in 2000 and 2003. Gronski was also the NAHB Student Chapter Advisory Board Chairman for 2003.

Sponsored by Thomson Delmar Learning, the awards are presented to individuals affiliated with NAHB Student Chapters. Educators are judged on the following criteria: teaching responsibilities; assigned and voluntary extracurricular activities with students; activities with local home builders associations, NAHB and/or other construction industry organizations; as well as their construction experience. Award winners receive a cash prize of $1,200. [ return to top ]