News Release
BC Aviation Council Announces Scholarship and Award Winners Industry organization recognizes aviation and aerospace leaders of today and of the future
October 1, 2014 (Vancouver, BC): The British Columbia Aviation Council (BCAC) has announced the winners of the Aviation Awards for 2014. The awards will be presented at the October 30 Silver Wings Awards gala along with more than $15,000 in scholarships to deserving students in the fields of flying, engineering and aviation management in programs from all over British Columbia.
“For more than 75 years, BCAC has been representing and supporting an industry that is an important economic generator for our province,” said BCAC Chairman, Mark Duncan. “As the aviation and aerospace sectors grow, we need to acknowledge the people and companies that have driven that growth; and we also need to ensure a well-trained workforce for the future. The Silver Wings Awards provide both the recognition to our leaders and financial support for young people entering the industry.”
“It comes as no surprise, given this province’s challenging geography, that aviation is important to our economic growth,” said B.C. Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Todd Stone. “It is also important for employment. More than 26,000 people work in the aviation and aerospace sector in this province. I applaud BCAC for putting the spotlight on this important segment of our economy.”
“Our annual premier event is the Silver Wings Awards. It allows industry leaders to network, and the organization to increase our scholarship fund,” said Duncan. “Last year, BCAC Honourary Member, Commander Chris Hadfield, highlighted the importance of education at an event at BCIT’s Aerospace Campus. Our scholarships help young people with lofty ambitions aim for the stars.”
About the industry winners:
• Entrepreneur of the Year: WestJet Encore for its new regional service in B.C.
• Back and Bevington Air Safety: BC Hydro Aircraft Operations Department for their work in elevating the safety level in the helicopter industry in B.C.
• Lifetime Achievement: John Morris of Blackcomb Aviation
• Robert S. Day Award: Kelly Jamieson, Pilot and Chair of the Aviation Leadership Foundation Mentorship Program
• William Templeton Award: North Peace Regional Airport for its ‘Fly Local’ marketing campaign
“I would encourage anyone interested in aviation and aerospace to join us in celebrating the contributions these companies and individuals have made to ensuring that our industry thrives,” said Duncan. “And by building opportunities for youth, we ensure a strong future in this sector.”
About the British Columbia Aviation Council
The British Columbia Aviation Council, established in 1938, is a member‐driven organization that represents and promotes the shared interests of the aviation community. It is a charitable society established under the Society Act and annually awards over $15,000 in scholarships to students pursuing careers in aviation and aerospace. Our vision is an aviation and aerospace industry that is visible, connected, and thriving.
About the BCAC’s Silver Wings Awards
The annual awards event is the highlight of the Council’s activities. This year, the awards will take place on October 30 at the new Vancouver Convention Centre West between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available.
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For more information:
Donna Farquhar
dfarquhar@bcaviationcouncil.org
Tel: 604-278-9330
Twitter: @bcac1938
Website: www.bcaviationcouncil.org
