In our RUGGED Resilience spotlight series, we highlight members of the trades community who have overcome adversity through perseverance and determination. This month, we recognize Derrick Steward, a U.S. Air Force veteran and owner of Stewards Plumbing in Berwick, Pennsylvania. 

Widowed at 29 and medically retired after nine years of active duty service, Steward faced the challenge of rebuilding life as a single father while redefining his future. With no prior experience, he entered the plumbing trade eager to learn, developing his skills under experienced mentors. 

Years later, a severe ankle injury left him unable to walk or work, taking a toll on both his physical and mental health. Encouraged by his fiancée, now wife, Steward used that difficult period to start his own business from the ground up. Nearly three years later, Stewards Plumbing has become a trusted name in his community, built on reliability, strong relationships, and pride in honest work. 

Today, Steward continues to grow his business while focusing on quality service and long-term impact in the town he calls home. 

Congratulations, Derrick — and STAY RUGGED.