MANHEIM, PA — Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) names Derek Robbins, HVAC Director and Sheet Metal Instructor of the ABC Keystone chapter in Manheim, Pennsylvania, as the 2025 Craft Instructor of the Year. Robbins was honored at ABC Convention 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
ABC presents the Craft Instructor of the Year Award annually to an instructor who demonstrates creativity, a positive attitude, and the ability to transfer knowledge through communications skills and innovative teaching to promote lifelong learning to the future construction workforce.
Robbins, 49, orchestrates and refines HVAC and sheet metal curricula for the chapter, crafting intensive, four-year, comprehensive courses to meet the industry’s evolving demands. He integrates technologies like 3D simulations, video content, and interactive visuals to enhance classroom instruction. With more than a dozen years of experience in the construction industry, Robbins spearheads programs that equip tradespeople with the knowledge needed to pass crucial certification exams. He also prepared the chapter’s top HVAC apprentice for the 2024 ABC National Craft Championships, where he went on to earn a gold medal in the competition.
“Throughout his construction career, Derek has consistently observed the power and efficacy of a merit-based approach,” said 2025 Chair of the ABC National Board of Directors David Pugh, Partner at Bradley in Birmingham, Alabama. “He believes that hiring, promotion, and compensation decisions are rooted in individual skills, performance, and contributions. Derek has transformed the HVAC program at ABC Keystone through his commitment to excellence, and he finds unrivaled joy in his career and students, serving not only as an instructor, but also as a dedicated mentor.”
“I am deeply committed to fostering excellence in the construction industry through comprehensive education and outreach. Teaching apprentices is truly the highlight of my career,” Robbins said. “My role extends far beyond the classroom, encompassing hands-on training, mentorship, and community engagement. Many apprentices desire additional hands-on training outside of regular classroom hours. To meet this need, I dedicate personal time to provide onsite instruction at job sites or ABC Keystone after hours. My overarching goal is to make essential upskilling more accessible to all craft professionals, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to advance in their careers and stay current with industry standards.”
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As Craft Instructor of the Year, Robbins received a $10,000 cash prize. Co-sponsors of the Craft Instructor of the Year are the National Center for Construction Education and Research, a nonprofit construction education foundation that provides training, assessment, certification, and career development solutions, and Tradesmen International, a craft professional staffing resource.
The Craft Instructor of the Year Award is one of numerous ABC award programs that promote lifelong learning and achievement in the construction industry.
