July 14, 2023 – The Construction Foundation of BC (CFBC) and the Electrical Contractors Association of British Columbia announced the creation of the ECABC Jack Funk Scholarship to provide financial support to electrical apprentices in the province.

“Providing financial and educational supports to electrical apprentices is an important action for ECABC to encourage the next generation of electrical workers,” said Derek Fettback, association chair and vice-president of Western Pacific Enterprises. “An electrical apprenticeship is a great way to gain experience and make money while pursuing an education and developing your skills.”

The scholarship honours the memory of Jack Funk, who ran his electrical contracting business for 45 years and also served as ECABC president (1994-1996). The scholarship, says the association, “reflects his commitment to training and supporting future generations of electrical apprentices and contractors”.

Registered apprentices enrolled in Years 1-4 of their electrical apprenticeship and employed by an ECABC contractor member can apply for the scholarship. They must be receiving their training through an approved provincial training institution.

A total of six (6) $1000 scholarships are available:

• Three (3) for apprentices in Metro Vancouver.
• One (1) for apprentices on Vancouver Island.
• One (1) for apprentices in the Interior and northern BC regions.
• One (1) for a line technician apprentice.

Following a review process and recommendations from the CFBC, the successful candidates will be selected by a panel comprising ECABC board members and staff.

“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.”