A contractor from Utah is the NAHB’s Best in Green Young Professional of the Year.

Jake Joines, owner of J2 Construction, was given the award Jan. 21 during the National Association of Home Builders’ International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas.

NAHB officials said Joines was involved in starting the first green council in the region and has built many certified homes under green construction standards.

 "Jake is a true leader in the green and sustainable building industry, and we are proud to recognize his dedication and achievements," said NAHB Chairman Kevin Kelly, a home builder and developer from Wilmington, Del. "He has played an integral role in the field and has shown great leadership in bringing together key stakeholders within the industry to champion sustainable building practices."