Joe Diaz has been a trusted leader within YouthBuild Boston's construction department for nearly 30 years. As he prepares for retirement this month, YouthBuild Boston thanks Joe for his many years of service to our community and the young people in our programs. He will be greatly missed!

Joe Diaz's past experience and education in Construction and Project Management from the US Marine Corps, North Bennet School of Industrial Arts, and Wentworth Institute provided him with a solid foundation on which to build his career. During his more than two decades with YBB, Joe has served as YBB's Construction Supervisor, Community Service Project Manager, Property Development Manager, Property Manager, and Construction Manager. As a member of Carpenters Local Union #67, Joe has built and maintained partnerships that have proven to be invaluable for the organization and for our students. He has provided leadership and expertise around cost estimating, budgeting and contracts, curriculum development, property and construction management, and on-site student training. His professional opinion is highly respected by staff, students, community partners, and the industry as a whole.

However, it takes more than experience to make the kind of mark that Joe has made here at YBB. Mahatma Gandhi once said, "A sign of a good leader is not how many followers you have but how many leaders you create". Since coming on board in the fall of 1994, Joe Diaz has been an exemplary role model for hundreds of students and many staff at YBB.

Joe has always put our students first. He prioritizes safety, fairness, and respect on the worksite. When leading the construction team in building family homes for low-income first-time homebuyers, Joe has always insisted on the highest quality. He truly cares about the people he trains, works with, and builds for. His positive influence is felt by all who pass through our doors, and his presence at YBB will be truly missed.

Congratulations, Joe. You have many accomplishments to be proud of. YBB thanks you for your many years of service and dedication, and wishes you a restful retirement.