ROCKPORT – Alton E. “Chuck” Cianchette, described as a construction industry pioneer, has been recognized with the 2001 Major Achievements in Construction Award from Associated Constructors of Maine Inc.

Cianchette is the 26th person recognized with the award and the first recipient honored posthumously. His wife, Helen, and daughter Lynn were presented with his award at a recent reception at the Samoset Resort in Rockport.

Cianchette was given the award for “his construction industry achievements and his service to the people of the State of Maine.” In addition to a commemorative plaque, ACM donated $1,000 to Maine Central Institute in Pittsfield in Cianchette’s memory.

Nearly 250 construction industry leaders were in attendance to express their appreciation and gratitude for Cianchette’s contributions to the state, including Cianbro Corp. Chairman Emeritus Ival “Bud” Cianchette, Chuck’s brother, who was the first MAC recipient in 1975.

Alton Cianchette was a Pittsfield native, a graduate of Maine Central Institute and a U.S. Army veteran who served in the Korean War. He entered the construction trades at a young age and worked his way up to become partner in Cianbro Corp., formerly Cianchette Brothers Construction.

As president and chairman of the company he helped Cianbro emerge as a dominant industry force in the eastern United States.