John E. Ahern, chairman of J.F. Ahern Co., Fond du Lac, Wis., was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Science degree from his alma mater, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, during UW commencement ceremonies May 16.

The honorary doctorate is the highest recognition given by UW-Madison. The award process begins with nominations from UW-Madison academic departments, and must then be endorsed by a 28-member Committee on Honorary Degrees, the UW-Madison chancellor, the Board of Regents, and the UW-Madison Faculty Senate.

Ahern represents the fourth generation of ownership in the family company. Beginning as a storefront heating and plumbing firm in 1880, J.F. Ahern Co. has since grown into one of the country’s largest mechanical and fire protection contracting companies. J.F. Ahern Co. sales approach $200 million, with over 1,000 employees and offices in eight states.