HALIFAX — The David Oulton Memorial Scholarship was awarded for the first time to Sanchari De at Construction Association of Nova Scotia’s (CANS) office recently.
The award’s namesake, who was known as “Mr. Construction” among friends, was a driving force in the construction industry for more than half a century, locally and abroad.
Much of his life was spent working with people, trying to find a way to build their projects but also change the way construction was viewed, indicates a release issued by the CANS.
Oulton was chairman of CANS (1999), as well as sitting on various boards including, the Sector Council, the Canadian Construction Association and the Nova Scotia Construction Labour Relations Association.
He was a trustee on the Pension and Benefits plan for Ironworkers Local 752, as well as instrumental in developing their apprenticeship program.
In 2007, Oulton spearheaded the CANS 150th Anniversary Industry Campaign, which raised over $1.2 million in scholarships and bursaries for students in construction-related programs at the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC).
“Dave’s involvement in construction wasn’t limited to fabricating and erecting the steel. He recognized that in order to grow and improve the construction industry, he needed to share his knowledge,” said Tim Houtsma, CANS vice chair, in a statement.
“Dave would’ve shied away from the spotlight of awarding this scholarship, but I know that he would be quietly proud that he is helping someone gain knowledge and benefit the construction industry.”
The scholarship is given to a full-time student, enrolled in the Construction Management Technology program at NSCC, who demonstrates strong leadership abilities and a background of community involvement.
De, the award recipient, will begin studies at the Ivany Campus this month.
She arrived in Canada from India just 10 days before the award ceremony and is excited to begin her studies in Nova Scotia.
“It was a hard decision to leave my job and come this far from (India), but I believe that it will open various opportunities for me,” said De, in a statement.
“I am willing to give my 100 per cent to this course and hope to make my family proud one day.”
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