Brian Hooper, vice president of MSI Mechanical Systems, was honored by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America for his service to the community.

Hooper was awarded the 2015 Skip Snyder Humanitarian Award for his vision and leadership of Building Dreams for Marines, an initiative that provides free home renovations for veterans living in New Hampshire who were physically injured during their service.

Hooper’s commitment to serving veterans aligns with the story behind Skip Snyder, whom the award was named after, ACCA officials say. A past national chairman of ACCA and North American Technician Excellence, Snyder was a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps ranger at Temple University and served two years active duty as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He also served 11 years as a captain in the Army Reserve transportation department in Philadelphia.

“Skip was an iconic leader with a unique passion for life, service to country and profession,” said ACCA President and CEO Paul T. Stalknecht. “Brian shares that same light and drive as Skip did when it comes to helping others who are in the greatest need. His work helping our wounded veterans, who willingly put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms, shows not only dedication to service, but also to our country. Brian truly embodies what this award stands for and is deserving of this tribute for his humanitarian efforts.”

Hooper said he felt very humbled to receive the award.

 “I am deeply honored to receive the Skip Snyder Humanitarian Award,” he said. “I’m accepting this award on behalf of the entire Building Dreams for Marines organization, collectively we are making a difference in the lives of wounded New Hampshire Marines. It is a very humbling experience to walk into the home of a Marine who cannot access all parts of their house because it’s not handicap accessible, or to watch as they cannot navigate around to their backyard because they don’t have a wheelchair accessible ramp. This organization will continue to do great things and it’s because of the generosity of so many. I am proud to use the resources of this industry to not only renovate the homes of these Marines, but I like to think we are delivering much more than brick and mortar, but rather we are helping to rebuild their lives back at home.”