AGC honors PAR, A-1 Steel

PAR Electrical and A-1 Steel were recognized by the Nevada Chapter of the Associated General Contractors as general contractor and subcontractor of the year for 2009.

PAR Electrical, a Reno-based unit of the Quanta Group, specializes in design, installation, repair and maintenance of electric transmission and distribution networks.

A-1 Steel of Sparks, started in 1984 by Carroll Ivory as a rebar fabrication company, fabricates and installs rebar. It recently expanded to include design-build and in-house detailing services.

Western Nevada Supply of Sparks was recognized by AGC members as supplier of the year, and Hartman Structural Engineering LLC was recognized as design professional of the year.

Jim Gardner, founder of Gardner Mechanical Engineers, received the organization's SIR Award. (The initials stand for "Skill, Integrity and Responsibility.")

A one-time engineer with the Gemini and Apollo space programs, Gardner's work in energy conservation has been recognized by the Department of Energy, State of Nevada and Southwest Builder's Association.

William N. Pennington, a gaming industry innovator, also earned the SIR Award.

He developed Circus Enterprises and pioneered the use of electronic gaming equipment. The William N. Pennington Foundation has made major contributions to northern Nevada's children and youth services, health care, higher education, and medical research.