William “Billy” Teaford, right, receives cash and tools totaling $5,000 from Klein Tools Product Marketing Manager Tom Barton.
Firm cites L-D314 member for achievement, safety, service
KLEIN TOOLS, AN Illinois-based manufacturer of hand tools, recently named Local D314 (Daleville, Va.) member William “Billy” Teaford its 2013 Electrician of the Year. He received $2,500 in cash, $2,500 in tools, and a “garage package” that includes a mini-refrigerator, bar stools, and other items.
Teaford was selected from more than 140 entrants nationwide. The award is based on professional achievement, safety excellence, and community dedication.
A 40-year member employed at Roanoke Cement Co., in Troutville, Va., Teaford has never had a lost-time accident, according to his nominating document. The submission also stated, “As the lead man for the electrical department, he’s the guy other electricians and engineers turn to when they need help troubleshooting a problem. In his spare time, he works with Toys for Tots on a program that donates bicycles to children at Christmas.”
“No matter what employee it is, they always say, ‘Thank you for letting me work with Bill,’” said Dan Babish, Roanoke Cement technical manager. “Billy takes the time to teach them about why they are doing something, how to do it properly, and why they are doing it” in a particular way.
Captain Kenneth Argot of the Roanoke Salvation Army said, “Billy initiated the bike drive in which over 500 bikes are now delivered annually to the Salvation Army for kids at Christmas time. Without the efforts of those around him and his leadership, that wouldn’t happen.”
