Insulation professional Gerardo Macias of Wauconda, Ill.-based Northern Insulation beat out 34 competitors to win the title of America’s Best Installer and the $10,000 grand prize at the Best Installer competition. The annual competition is hosted by Johns Manville and Insulate America and was held in Denver, from Nov. 7-9.
In its 17th year, the competition serves as a reminder of the importance of properly installed insulation and recognizes how the skills, hard work and dedication of local insulation installers can contribute to a more energy efficient building and cost savings for the owner. The competition was founded in 2003 by Johns Manville, a Berkshire Hathaway company and building products manufacturer, and Insulate America, an independent insulation contractor organization.
The Best Installer competition brings together insulation installers from across the country to test their installation skills. This year, competitors were tasked with installing JM formaldehyde-free insulation batts into mock home structures, designed with barriers like electrical outlets, pipes and vaulted ceilings. Macias and the other competitors were judged on their speed, workmanship and the overall quality of the job.
“Each year we’re amazed by the talent and dedication of the local insulation professionals at the Best Installer’s competition and this year was no exception,” says Bob Wamboldt, president of insulation systems at Johns Manville. “Gerardo’s performance stood out from the rest and we thank him and all of this year’s competitors for the important role they play in supporting our insulation industry and promoting energy efficiency.”
The competition also recognized second, third and fourth places. The finalists this year are:
- Alex Franco of Homeowner’s Insulation in Colorado Springs, Colo., was awarded second place with a $5,000 prize.
- Brian Kisner of McPherson Products in St. Cloud, Minn., placed third with a $3,500 prize.
- Joseph Stansbury of Home Improvement Professionals in Byron, Minn., was recognized in fourth place with a $2,500 prize.
Additionally, eight competitors were also awarded cash prizes for their performances during the preliminary competition rounds:
- Juan Jaquez of Raytown, Mo.-based Star Companies: $1,000
- Brian McBride of Lancaster, Pa.-based Keener Insulating: $1,000
- Joshua Hans of Auburn, Calif.-based Sierra Insulation: $1,000
- Gavin Turner of Topeka, Kan.-based Black Gold: $1,000
- Elliott Laughlin of Blaine, Minn.-based Homeco: $500
- Larry “Pete” Middleton of Sterling Heights, Mich.-based Turner Insulation: $500
- Michael Bowdish of Pleasant View, Utah-based J&K Insulation: $500
- Jesus Garza of Pflugerville, Texas-based Hill Country Insulation: $500