Round of Applause: Craig Childress

Round of Applause: Craig Childress

Awardee

Craig Childress

BU affiliation

Lead worker, plumbing services, Facilities Management & Operations

What is the honor you've received?

I recently won the HVAC National Championship, part of the Elite Trades Championship Series, for the third year in a row. It's a nationwide competition that brings together some of the best HVAC professionals from across the country.

What is the competition about?

Anyone in the trade can apply online. Round one is a short online test covering HVAC knowledge and safety. The top scorers advance to round two, where participants receive a hands-on kit that must be assembled on video in one take. Judges score based on safety, workmanship, accuracy, and time.

The top finalists are then invited to compete in person. This year's finals were in West Palm Beach, Fla., where we completed diagnostic and installation challenges. It's very similar to what we do every day in the field: finding problems, repairing systems, and making sure everything runs efficiently and safely.

Why is it meaningful?

To stand among the best HVAC technicians in the country and win three years in a row is incredible. It's an honor to represent BU and our plumbing department. My team here is so supportive. When I got back, my manager brought in breakfast for everyone and put up a big photo of me holding the trophy. I'm a plumber by trade and have been in the field for more than 25 years, starting in vocational school. This win isn't just mine, it reflects years of learning, hard work, and teamwork.

What's next for you?

I plan to compete again next year and hopefully return to the plumbing competition as well. My main goal is to keep learning. I haven't decided exactly how I'll use the $40,000 prize yet, but I'll probably set some aside for my two kids and maybe plan another family trip.

I'm just one part of a really talented plumbing and HVAC team here at BU. Everyone in our department is capable and committed to keeping this campus running smoothly. I'm proud to be part of that.

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