Celebrating Excellence: MITER Brands Honors Florida’s Apprentice of the Year
MITER Brands’ Commitment to Workforce Development
In an inspiring ceremony that coincided with National Apprenticeship Day on April 30, MITER Brands, a premier manufacturer of residential windows and doors, proudly recognized team member Andrew Clark for receiving the 2024 Florida Manufacturer Apprentice of the Year award.
An Event to Remember
Hosted at the PGT Windows and Doors facility in North Venice, Florida, the event was attended by more than 25 guests, including representatives from FloridaMakes, the Sarasota-Manatee Manufacturers Association (SAMA), and CareerSource Suncoast. Dignitaries included Luis Laracuente, Senator Rick Scott’s District Director, and Steven Seville from the Department of Education.
Recognizing Commitment and Initiative
The FloridaMakes award celebrates those who show an exceptional dedication to their craftsmanship and responsibility, encouraging others to explore the world of manufacturing. “This recognition isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about work ethic, initiative, and impact,” remarked Marcelo Dossantos, Director of Workforce Development for FloridaMakes.
Building a New Generation
“At MITER Brands, we’re building the next generation of master tradespeople,” said CEO Matt Desoto. “We have young, talented individuals who take pride in their work, and Andrew and apprentices like him embody the spirit of growth and innovation we value.”
Clark’s victory marks a significant milestone: it’s the third consecutive year that an MITER apprentice has received this prestigious recognition, following the successes of William Merriman in 2023 and Brentyn Szalbirak in 2022. Both past awardees were also honored at the event for their achievements and graduation as certified Journeymen in PGT’s Tool and Die program.
Innovative Approaches to Workforce Development
“Innovation isn’t just in our products; it’s reflected in how we nurture our teams and strengthen our culture,” commented Chris Davis, Vice President of Operations at MITER Brands. The company’s apprenticeship program, which began in 2018, aims to cultivate excitement and awareness for manufacturing careers, placing MITER Brands at the forefront of talent development.
Expanding Opportunities
Thanks to the success of its Tool and Die department program, MITER Brands has expanded its apprenticeship offerings to include the Maintenance Department at its PGT facility, shining a spotlight on the organization’s robust commitment to vocational training.
About MITER Brands
Founded in 1947, MITER Brands is a leading manufacturer of energy-efficient windows and doors, committed to a family-first approach. With a nationwide presence and over 20 manufacturing facilities across the U.S., MITER Brands prioritizes quality, relationships, and exceptional customer experiences, continuously striving to elevate the standards in the manufacturing industry.
For more information, visit www.miterbrands.com.
With initiatives like their robust apprenticeship program, MITER Brands is not only crafting windows and doors but also helping to shape the future of manufacturing. This is a company to watch in the ever-evolving landscape of skilled labor and innovation.
