Volunteer Awards
Volunteer of the Year
Tarlton "Trooper" Smith, PE, DBIA of Freese and Nichols was recognized as the 2024 DBIA Florida Region Volunteer of the Year.
Trooper took ownership of a committee that had not been active for several years. He set about developing a committee and worked tirelessly to achieve his goals. His focus led to the development of an Owners Roadshow, hosting of a virtual program, bringing in a National speaker, and offering resources to our chapters and committees. Congratulations Trooper!
President's MVP Award
David is a dependable and goal-oriented volunteer that always steps in and makes a difference. He takes on any task and sees it through. In 2023 he doubled our number of annual sponsors and has increased it again by 20%. Even though he is a past recipient of this award, we did not want his service to go unrecognized.
Ensuring Access Award
Eric Smith, PE with the City of Daytona Beach was recognized for his willingness to share his knowledge
It is important for DBIA to make information on emerging trends, best practices, and lessons learned along the way accessible. This empowers Owners and practitioners to stay informed and equipped with the necessary tools for successful design-build procurement and delivery. Eric embraced this mission and took significant steps to foster a collaborative learning environment through online quarterly meetings with other Owners.
Fostering Collaboration Award
Justin Saarinen accepts the Fostering Collaboration Award on behalf of the Southwest Chapter.
This award acknowledges extrordinary effort to foster collaboration. This year's award recognized a group of individuals who came together to establish a presence in Southwest Florida. Their main highlight of the year was a successful round table event where Owners and practitioners shared their stories on current trends and lessons learned delivering design-build projects. The group consisted of Zac Armstrong, Lyssa Lott, Justin Saarinen, Dustin Chisum, Bryan Thaagard, Billy Logan, and Tom Myers.
Building the Future Award
DBIA looks to support the industry in attracting the next generation of design and construction professionals. The Gulf Coast Chapter chaired by Krystal Strassman, Assoc. DBIA was recognized with this award.
The Gulf Coast Chapter has made remarkable strides in demonstrating its commitment to the next generation through the successful establishment of its scholarship program. The program is funded through their annual clay shoot event, which honors the legacy of Tommy Rawls. It takes a tremendous effort to both put on the funding event and to interview and select the scholarship recipients.
Rising Star Award
Mabel Blanco of Superior Construction was recognized with the Rising Star Award.
This award recognizes an individual who may be new to design-build or new to volunteering with DBIA, yet has already made a significant impact. Mabel Blanco joined our organization and took on the formidable task of revitalizing the South Florida Chapter that had been inactive for many years. Despite the challenges, Mabel embraced this role with determination and enthusiasm, successfully building a core committee to support her efforts. Her leadership and vision led to the chapter delivering its first program in many years.
