Presentation of the Reading Section Francis A. Butkus Award

Presentation of the Reading Section Francis A. Butkus Award

Craig A. Davis Chairman, presenting the Francis A. Butkus award to Francis A. Butkus namesake.

The AWS Reading Section presented the first ever Francis A. Butkus Award on Friday, November 15th. This award will be presented to people who are nominated for their unwavering commitment to the Society, the welding trades and the community.

Our first recipient is the namesake of this award, Francis A. Butkus, aka Bucky. Francis has been a pillar in the local community having been one of the first welding instructors at the local vocational technical center back in 1968. He owned the Sinking Spring Weld Shop/Welding and Thermal Technologies since 1964. He was an asset to the local industry, often called upon to diagnose metallurgical, welding and/or fabrication issues. He was the Mayor of Sinking Spring, PA from 2010-2012. He has been a member of the Section for 55 years, having served in every position in our Section, sometimes multiple times throughout his tenure. He is currently enjoying retirement but stays up to date on all facets and advancements in the welding industry. His advice and knowledge are still sought out by many people in the community.