Caption: The winners of the ECA (SA) Presidential Awards at the first annual Presidential Awards evening.
The first annual ECA (SA) Presidential Awards programme was a great success. The Awards programme consisted of a two-day event filled with golfing fun, an exciting Awards Banquet to announce the category winners and a valuable industry conference. An impressive 39 entries were received across the 8 categories for 2012. Said outgoing ECA (SA) President, “To all entrants who were brave enough to expose themselves to scrutiny against the standard called excellence, congratulations. As I stand here I know that you fully understand that it is not good enough merely be good and you challenged yourself to be excellent in the face of challenging trading conditions.” The most subscribed category for 2012 was that of Young Apprentice of the Year. The importance of this was pointed out by Chris Greager, National Director: ECA (SA) when he announced that the ECA (SA) has entered into an agreement with the Construction Seta to provide R10million worth of training and skills development to the electrical industry. Hence, to see employers nominating young apprentices from all over South Africa is an indication of the commitment by everyone to shape the future and contribute to the upliftment of South African society. The 1st annual conference was well attended and provided valuable insights within the theme “Exploring Energy Efficiency”. With input from Eskom regarding tariff structuring and energy saving rebates to panel discussions on alternative energy sources and the future of lighting, delegates left armed with much needed information. The ECA (SA) is extremely grateful to the key sponsors of the 2012 Awards events. Firstly, Eskom, which came on board when the process was barely developed and committed to helping make the Awards dinner a roaring success. In addition, Eskom offered valuable advice and support over the long term for ECA (SA) members. Next, ECA (SA) associate member, Eaton Electric SA, grabbed the opportunity to sponsor the first National Golf Day at the Killarney Golf Club. With its unbelievable generosity, the 80 player field were wonderfully spoilt and enjoyed a fun Sunday of golf. One of the newest ECA (SA) associate members partnered to make the Annual Conference a reality. A special thanks to Brother SA who’s support and abundance of spectacular giveaways helped to make all the events more memorable. The Copper Development Association Africa joined the sponsor team providing spectacular trophies and certificates for all the winners. With a special interest in the electrical industry, the Copper Development Association Africa will also remain a valuable partner to the ECA (SA). Last but not least a thanks to Sparks for promoting and communicating the Awards process every step of the way. As official media partner, their support has been invaluable. Says Mark Mfikoe, “These four sponsors helped to make the dream of recognising excellence in the electrical contracting industry a reality. Our sincere thanks to them for the support for our Awards and the wonderful partnerships we have now created.” AWARD WINNERS BEST CONTRIBUTOR TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY Magnet Electrical Supplies for the National Energy Saving showerhead Exchange INSTALLATION OF THE YEAR – HOUSING M & L Electrical Contracts for the Masimong – Shaft 4 – Welkom – Low-cost Housing INSTALLATION OF THE YEAR – SHOPPING CENTRESEdison Power & Electrical for the Newcastle Mall
INSTALLATION OF THE YEAR – OFFICE BLOCKS AND HOTELS Standard Electrical for the Menlyn Maine Falcon Building INSTALLATION OF THE YEAR – INDUSTRIAL Cato Ridge Electrical for the Plascon Electrical Installation Work for the MV upgrade project RETICULATION CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR – Private / supply authority/ housing Designer Lighting for the Qumza Highway Street Light Project YOUNG APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR Designer Lighting – Masuxole Eric Poni WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR N.U.B.J. Connections – Ms Khosi Nyezi Eskom/Naledi Extension 2 DP Houses Electrification Project Infrastructure construction of MV/LV
