Drexel University Professor Charles W. Cook received the AGC Education and Research Foundation’s Outstanding Educator Award.

The AGC Education and Research Foundation has recognized Drexel University Professor Charles W. Cook with its Outstanding Educator Award, given annually to an educator who makes a significant mark in the field of construction education, and recognized Joseph Franklin as the James L. Allhands Student Essay winner.

"Inspiring young minds to pursue careers in construction today helps ensure the continued strength of our industry tomorrow," said Eddie Stewart, the association's president and chief executive officer of Caddell Construction in Montgomery, Ala. "These awards remind us that with top-notch education and students' unwavering commitment to learn, the future of our industry is bright."

Charles W. Cook has combined a career in the family construction business with an avocation in communications, media, and teaching. Beginning as a laborer, he rose to be president of R. S. Cook and Associates Inc. Cook is now a clinical professor of construction management in Drexel University's College of Engineering. His text, Successful Contract Administration for Constructors and Design Professionals, was published by Routledge Publishing, Oxford, UK. As the Outstanding Educator winner, he received a $5,000 cash award and named two students as recipients of $2,500 scholarships for the coming academic year. The Outstanding Educator award is based on a nominee's academic contribution as well as his/her work with students outside of the classroom and involvement with colleagues in the industry.

East Carolina University student Joseph Franklin is the James L. Allhands Student Essay winner.

In addition to the Outstanding Educator Award, the association also recognized Joseph Franklin, a senior at East Carolina University as the James L. Allhands Student Essay winner. The award recognizes a student essay on a specific topic that is deemed to be beneficial to the advancement of technological, educational, or vocational expertise in the construction industry. The competition is open to any senior–level student in a four or five–year ABET or ACCE–accredited university construction management or construction–related engineering program. The First Place essay author receives $1,000. His/her faculty sponsor receives $500.

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