MADISON, Wis., March 8, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WECC, a national leader in the design and implementation of energy-saving programs, was recognized this week as one of its staff was publicly recognized for his caliber of work. At the March 7, 2013 opening ceremony of the Better Buildings: Better Business (B4) Conference® in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, The Energy Center University announced Robert Parkhurst as its 2013 Educator of the Year.
Educator of the Year nominees were judged in five areas:
1) Professional activities including research, publications, and presentations
2) Construction experience
3) Activities with construction industry groups and associations
4) Time spent in the field teaching and learning from industry representatives
5) Assigned and voluntary extracurricular activities with students
Parkhurst has been a Program Manager at WECC since 2004 and plays a leadership role for residential quality assurance, technical assistance, and training activities. For more than 25 years, Parkhurst has been a vital member of the low income and weatherization industry. Before joining WECC, he managed the West Central Wisconsin Community Action Agency, Inc. Since joining WECC, he has trained hundreds of contractors, crews, auditors, and managers on how to make homes more energy efficient, comfortable, and affordable. Robert has also participated in cutting-edge research for ASHRAE 62.2 and often serves as a weatherization policy technical liaison. In 2011, he also received the U.S. Department of Energy's National Weatherization Recognition Award.
"I am thrilled that Robert has been recognized with this prestigious award. He is a critical member of our Technical Training and Services team and deserves this recognition for his hard work and dedication," said Mary Woolsey Schlaefer, WECC President and CEO. "To see Robert in the field is to see a genius in his element. His building science expertise and trainings help hundreds of trade allies make homes better, safer, and more efficient."
As part of its Energy Center University initiative, the Energy Center of Wisconsin has recognized a premier educator in the energy efficiency and residential building industries every year since 2008. In 2011, WECC's Bob Pfeiffer was named Educator of the Year.
"Naturally, local and national recognition are appreciated and validate WECC's performance," said Woolsey Schlaefer. "To have multiple WECC employees named as Educator of the Year speaks to the depth of WECC's leadership in our industry."
About WECC
WECC is a mission-driven nonprofit that delivers real energy solutions for our clients' benefit. For more than 30 years, WECC has led the industry in energy efficiency and renewable energy programs. For more information about WECC, call 800.969.9322 or visit weccusa.org
The Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=11970