At the 2025 Executives Forum in Carmel, California, Synergy members once again gathered to share the practical ideas and real-world improvements that are moving their companies forward.
One of the most anticipated traditions each year is the Best Idea Challenge, where member companies present practical solutions that have improved their business. This year, Storer Services took home the top honor with a creative and scalable approach to apprenticeship training.
Solving a Training Gap with a Hands-On Solution
Like many contractors, Storer Services saw a growing need to better support apprentices who live or work in remote areas. While digital learning tools have their place, their team knew that nothing replaces hands-on experience when it comes to building technical confidence.
Their idea centered on creating custom physical training models that give apprentices a way to practice, explore, and understand mechanical concepts regardless of where they are located. By developing these models in-house, Storer Services created a learning tool that is consistent, accessible, and aligned with how technicians actually learn.
The result is a scalable training resource that helps apprentices visualize system configurations, strengthen foundational understanding, and gain the type of practical exposure that accelerates their growth.
How the Best Idea Challenge Works
The Best Idea Challenge is a fun, fast-paced way for Synergy members to share smart business improvements. Each company pays a $100 submission fee, and all ten ideas are presented during the forum. After the presentations, member companies vote for the winner.
The winning company receives the full pot from the submission fees, and Synergy matches that total with a donation to a charity selected by the winner. It’s a tradition that blends learning, friendly competition, and giving back.
Celebrating Storer Services
Congratulations to Craig Storer, Aaron Storer, and the entire Storer Services team for bringing forward an idea that strengthens the future of the skilled trades and continues the spirit of sharing that defines the Synergy network.
