COAA Announces 2019 Inaugural Emerging Professional (EP) Award of Excellence

The Construction Owners Association of America (COAA) conferred the inaugural Emerging Professional (EP) Award of Excellence at its national fall conference, held in Atlanta, GA. The award was created to recognize those early in their careers demonstrating leadership, skill, strategy, knowledge, and other qualities positioning them for continued success throughout their careers.

The 2019 award was presented to Michael Rubin with the University of Florida. Mentorship is a key component to the EP program, and Michael was fortunate to have two mentors through the COAA Florida Chapter in Miles Albertson and Howie Ferguson to help guide his journey and develop his leadership opportunities within COAA. He has assumed progressively increasing responsibility in his positions with the Florida chapter beginning as a volunteer, then Secretary, and currently Vice-President.

His nomination included the following recognition, "Michael is known as a professional who demonstrates outstanding service and contribution to the COAA organization and uses his strong leadership skills to be an ambassador for Owner participation and education, specifically exemplifying The COAA Way."

Michael was unable to personally accept the award as he was on the other side of the world traveling in Japan, but provided a video acceptance.

In addition to recognizing the winner, Shawn Kelly, Chair of the EP Committee, also acknowledged the COAA staff, Board of Directors, chapter leaders and mentors that have supported and developed the Emerging Professional program within COAA. Jessica Bonin with Holder Construction was specifically recognized for her efforts and passion for engaging these young leaders and organizing the committee within COAA.