Judges of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI)’ Community Awards have awarded Karen Nelson, business development manager for Hoppe UK, the Fellowship Award, which recognises longstanding and ongoing commitment to the Guild. The award was presented on Thursday 23 November in conjunction with the GAI Education Awards.
Karen has worked at Hoppe UK for more than eight years. In awarding her the Fellowship Award, judges recognised Karen’s role as chair of the Midlands Community Hub as well as her contribution to the GAI education committee.
“I feel very proud to be recognised for the Fellowship Award,” said Karen. “My involvement in both the Midlands Community Hub and the education committee has always been driven by my belief in the importance of the Guild’s education and CPD programme. I know this is a sentiment shared by many of my industry peers.
“The members of the Midlands Community Hub regularly come together to share their knowledge and experience to help progress the industry. There aren’t many sectors like ours and I’m honoured to be a part of it.”
After completing her GAI diploma in 2008, Karen attained a second GAI diploma in door systems. In addition to this, for more than 10 years, Karen has organised a Midlands Community Hub Christmas charity quiz, raising more than £7,000 for various charities.
The judges said: “Karen is highly regarded and commands a great deal of respect not just from her fellow hub members and company colleagues but by many throughout the industry. She has earned this through her service to the industry over and above her own career or professional gain. Karen is a thoroughly committed professional who typifies the very best and highest ethos of the GAI.”
Sam Thatcher, executive chair of the GAI Community, added: “Karen has made a significant and ongoing commitment to the Guild and the wider sector for many years and remains active in support of the organisation despite a very demanding role. The judges felt Karen has done so much to advance the Guild across multiple fronts from promoting the GAI and acquiring new members to helping train employees and the wider audience.
“She willingly volunteers and assists in the Guild’s CPD and our registered professionals in their understanding. Everyone will agree, this is most deserved.”
As well as being a GAI Diploma holder, Karen is also a Registered Architectural Ironmonger and Fire Door Inspection Scheme (FDIS) Diploma holder. Read more about the GAI here.
