ABC recognized Lloyd Evans, hiring and training administrator for Watson Electrical Construction Co. LLC, Wilson, N.C., as its 2014 Craft Instructor of the Year. Evans will be honored during ABC’s Workforce Development Conference May 2 in Birmingham, Ala.

Evans, a Vietnam Veteran, began his career in construction as an electrical helper for Watson Electrical Construction more than 45 years ago. He has proven his ability and knowledge as he’s worked his way up as a foreman, supervisor, office and division manager and now as the Hiring and Training Administrator where he educates new hires about the company, assists with the company training processes, and works closely with company apprentices including training them for local and national competitions.

“Lloyd's knowledge, experience and his positive attitude serves as a great example to our apprentices and other employees,” said Darren Green, vice president of human resources at Watson Electrical Construction. “He is willing to make himself available to help anyone who desires to learn more about the electrical industry or needs help in any area.

Evans is also a NCCER Master Trainer and NCCER Sponsor Representative for both Watson Electrical Construction and at the local Community College. He participates in career fairs throughout our state to help educate high school students about the benefits of a career in the electrical industry and works closely with military veterans to educate them on opportunities with his company and the electrical industry as a whole when they leave the service.

As an instructor, Evans provides a unique learning environment, using direct application of student knowledge and hands-on techniques and easy-to-understand comparisons for complicated subjects. When working with students, Evans often draws from his own experiences on the job experiences to provide real world application of the training material.

“Lloyd Evans takes a lot of pride in everything that he does,” said Shaun Birch, one of Evans’ electrical students. “Lloyd would never give up on a student, even when they try to give up on themselves. He’s always there giving them the confidence needed to be successful.”

As the 2014 Craft Instructor of the Year, Evans received a cash prize from the Trimmer Construction Education Foundation, a trophy, and a tablet and leather jacket from NCCER.