Andy Foppe, business development manager of Hendrick Construction Inc., has been certified as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited professional by the U.S. Green Building Council.

LEED accredited professionals guide green projects through design and construction. Foppe oversees Hendrick Construction’s green-building initiative, and he ensures that projects meet the qualifications set by the U.S. Green Building Council and earn LEED certification.

“Hendrick Construction is committed to building environmentally sound projects,” said Roger Hendrick, president of Hendrick Construction. “Andy provides our clients with a qualified resource to help them build energy-efficient projects that achieve LEED certification.“

One of Hendrick Construction’s notable green-building projects is the 384,000-sq.-ft. (35,675 sq. m) heavy renovation of the Mecklenburg County Freedom Center. Hendrick is transforming an aging mall into Class A office space for county employees.

Mecklenburg County will seek LEED certification for the project in 2009. The final phase is scheduled to be finished in 2011.

Foppe, who joined Hendrick Construction in 2007, has worked in commercial construction for more than 15 years. Foppe also is certified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for completing the 30-hour construction industry outreach training course.

Charlotte, N.C.-based Hendrick Construction Inc. provides general contracting services throughout the Southeast. Founded in 2002 by Roger Hendrick, the company’s portfolio includes facilities for corporate headquarters, manufacturing, industrial, health care and bio-tech companies, as well as schools, government offices, churches and restaurants. Hendrick Construction was named one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s fastest growing businesses in America in 2008.

For more information, visit www.hendrickconstruction.com.