New scholarship honours memory of B.C. contractor

Key Takeaways:

• The scholarship is named after Jack Funk, who was a longtime Electrical Contractors Association of British Columbia member and former president.
• The funds will cover different regions in B.C.
• Successful candidates will be selected by a panel.

The Whole Story:

Construction Foundation of BC (CFBC) and the Electrical Contractors Association of British Columbia (ECABC) have jointly announced the establishment of the ECABC Jack Funk Scholarship, aimed at providing financial assistance to electrical apprentices in the province.

The scholarship serves as a tribute to the memory of Jack Funk who dedicated 45 years to running his electrical contracting business and served as president of ECABC between 1994 and 1996. The association stated that the scholarship reflects his commitment to training and supporting future generations of electrical apprentices and contractors.

Derek Fettback, Chair of ECABC and vice president of Western Pacific Enterprises, emphasized the significance of the scholarship in encouraging the next wave of electrical workers. 

“Providing financial and educational support to electrical apprentices is a vital initiative by ECABC to foster the growth of the next generation,” said Fettback. “An electrical apprenticeship offers an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience, earn income, pursue education, and refine one’s skills.”

The scholarship is open to registered apprentices enrolled in years 1-4 of their electrical apprenticeship and employed by an ECABC contractor member. Eligible candidates must be receiving their electrical apprenticeship training from an approved training institution in British Columbia. Six individual scholarships, each worth $1,000, will be awarded as follows:

• Three scholarships for electrical apprentices in Metro Vancouver
• One scholarship for electrical apprentices on Vancouver Island
• One scholarship for electrical apprentices in the Interior and Northern BC regions
• One scholarship for a line technician apprentice

The selection process for the scholarships will involve a panel consisting of ECABC board members and staff. They will review applications and consider recommendations provided by the CFBC.

Matt MacInnis, ECABC President, emphasized the promising opportunities available for young individuals pursuing a career in the electrical trades. He highlighted the remarkable contributions made by ECABC members and their employees toward building a sustainable economy. These contributions include constructing new hospitals, developing clean energy projects, supporting the creation of new homes, and installing the necessary infrastructure for electric vehicles.

“There has never been a better time for young people to pursue a career in the electrical trades,” said Matt MacInnis, ECABC President. “ECABC’s members and their employees are making remarkable contributions to building BC’s sustainable future – from constructing new hospitals, to building world-class clean energy projects, to supporting the creation of new homes, and installing the infrastructure needed to power electric vehicles.”