April 17, 2014 – Charles A. Cipolla—chair of Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) and chair of Cambridge and North Dumfries Hydro—received Electro-Federation Canada’s (EFC’s) 2014 Industry Recognition Award (IRA). Congratulations!

“I’ve been very fortunate in my career to have worked in a wonderful industry,” said Cipolla. “It’s phenomenal what the electrical industry does, and if there’s a criticism, it’s that we don’t tell the outside world… This is an amazing industry. It’s miraculous what we can do with electricity, and shame on us for not telling that story and making people more aware… We all feel that we’re just doing a job, but we’re doing much more than a job; we’re improving our society and our way of life.”

Employed in many senior positions at Rockwell Automation Canada (formerly Allen-Bradley Canada Ltd.), Charlie has been actively engaged in the Canadian electrical market for his entire career. He served as EFC chair (2001-2002), member of the executive committee and also served as treasurer and chair of the Electrical & Electronic Manufacturers Association Committee.

“It’s about bloody time the industry recognized you,” said Doug Baldwin, a previous IRA winner as he welcomed Cipolla to the podium to receive his award. “The Industry Recognition Award becomes even more valuable now that it has your name added to it.”

Since 2000, EFC’s Industry Recognition Award has been presented annually to an individual who has influenced the Canadian electrical and/or electronics industries, either as a current or retired industry delegate, or as an industry supporter. EFC and its councils represent over 300 member companies that manufacture, distribute and service electrical, electronics and telecom products. (Photos A. Capkun)