The multi-trades chief is honored for his work and leadership on the University’s LED Initiative Project, which supports UMB’s sustainability efforts.
Clifford Grant might be the “strong, silent type” when it comes to his job, according to his supervisor, but his work shines brightly at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB).
Grant, multi-trades chief 2, Multi-Trades Shop, Operations and Maintenance (O&M), has a specialty in lighting, having started working at UMB 17 years ago in its Relamp Shop. He recently showed exemplary leadership on the LED Initiative Project for Zone 1, which consists of five buildings that include medical facilities such as Health Sciences Research Facility I and II and the Bressler Research Building.
“Clifford was willing to accept a challenge and went above and beyond with the LED project, especially in the med block, which is one of our most important areas on campus,” said Vincent Cancelli, non-technical trades manager and Grant’s supervisor. “His meticulous planning and execution improved campus infrastructure while advancing UMB’s sustainability goals by reducing energy consumption and costs.”
For his work and commitment to the University’s core values, Grant was named UMB’s Employee of the Month for March. He was surprised with the news during a videoconference March 10 with UMB President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS.
“I’ve read the award nomination, and it’s clear that people think very highly of you,” Jarrell told Grant in offering his congratulations. “I appreciate your commitment to UMB overall and to our sustainability efforts in particular.”
For the LED project, UMB is converting light bulbs in buildings across campus from fluorescent to LED (light-emitting diode), which will reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. When complete, it is estimated to annually save 5.3 million kilowatt hours, which is equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions from 817 passenger vehicles being driven for one year.
Elizabeth Main, MPA, director, Office of Sustainability, said the LED project also reduces future maintenance needs since the bulbs have longer lifespans.
“The project saves UMB time and money while reducing our greenhouse gas emissions,” she said.
Grant’s part of the project including ordering the bulbs, determining which areas needed them, and distributing and staging the bulbs for placement. Even though his title is not a lead, Cancelli was confident in him taking charge.
“I knew he had this ability to organize a group, give tasks, and lead. And he has a long, extensive background in lighting,” he said.
Grant said working alongside electricians helped him hone his problem-solving skills, including how to move around light fixtures if they are blocked or difficult to access.
“I have studied light bulbs ever since, because that’s what they told me I should do: Study your light bulbs and make sure you know each one, what they do, where to put them,” he said.
Cancelli praised Grant’s ability to prioritize, multitask, and solve problems.
“His unwavering commitment to quality and timeliness ensures that projects are completed with precision and ahead of schedule, minimizing disruptions and enhancing efficiency,” Cancelli said in nominating Grant for the award.
“His professionalism and dedication to exceeding customer expectations demonstrate integrity, consistently delivering high-quality service that enhances UMB’s reputation. Cliff’s innovative problem-solving skills align with UMB’s core value of discovery, enabling him to address challenges proactively and implement long-term solutions that drive continuous operational improvement.”
The team that Grant is a part of also supports Zone 3, which consists of numerous buildings such as Saratoga, Lexington, the School of Pharmacy, and the Pine Street Police Station.
“Cliff is definitely extremely supportive in both of these zones, to our team, to myself, and to this campus,” Cancelli said.
Grant said his favorite part of his job is his co-workers.
“Everyone shows a lot of care in what they do,” he said. “And I can always go to them and ask them a question and get a good answer.”
Grant will receive a certificate, a letter of commendation, and an extra $250 in his next paycheck for the award.
He thanked Cancelli as well as Lucas Noppenberger, associate director, O&M, and Daniel Deurer, manager, Multi-Trades Shop, for their support, adding that winning the award was a special moment.
“I never dreamed that I would be Employee of the Month,” he said.
Cancelli said Grant upholds UMB’s core values in his work.
“Through his leadership, collaborative spirit, and dedication to excellence, Cliff consistently raises the standard for performance and inspires those around him,” Cancelli said. “His ability to align his contributions with UMB’s core values makes him an invaluable asset to the campus community and a driving force for positive, lasting impact on the University’s operations and environment.”