Exactly 153 construction apprentices, living in and around Florida's southeastern coast, from Key West to Brevard County, received their construction apprentice degrees on July 21 at the Signature Grand hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

President and CEO of the Associated Builders and Contractors Florida East Coast Chapter, Peter Dyga, was quoted in an article on the ABC website saying, "This year's class was exceptional. We had students overcome challenges, tragedies and adversity. We're proud of each and every student and all they have accomplished during their time at the institute."

MasTec, Inc., a multinational, infrastructure engineering and construction company based in Coral Gables, Fla., sponsored the graduation ceremony.

Thirty-eight graduates and one instructor received monetary awards, courtesy of ABC Cares, in addition to their diplomas. The recognitions were given for outstanding achievements like perfect attendance, completion of valedictorian requirements or being an Instructor of the Year recipient.