MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release

November 9, 2009

 

Vancouver Island is known in the province, in Canada and globally for its ground breaking work in areas ranging from electric vehicles, software development to green energy solutions.

 

On November 5, 2009, the 4th Annual MISTIC Science, Technology & Innovation Awards took place and on November 6, 2009 the inaugural MISTIC Innovation Showcase Tradeshow at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre during National Technology Week. 

 

At the MISTIC Awards, thirty-nine finalists were selected from 94 nominations in 13 awards categories.  Finalists and winners that were celebrated and showcased represented the MISTIC region, encompassing Mill Bay in the south to the tip of Vancouver Island in the north, including communities on the Sunshine Coast and Gulf Islands.

 

MISTIC presents these awards to highlight and recognize companies and individuals that have demonstrated passion, commitment, sound business practices and innovative thinking.  “The science and technology sectors within the MISTIC region are often referred to as the hidden industries as many people are not aware of the innovative entrepreneurs and businesses that are creating and developing cutting edge products and services”, says Carolyn Tatton, Executive Director of MISTIC.  “The gala event brought these activities to the forefront and provided acknowledgment and gratitude to the diverse innovators, entrepreneurs, businesses and staff for their determination, hard work and creativity”.

 

Winner at the 2009 MISTIC Science, Technology & Innovation Awards:

 

ASTTBC Leadership in Technology Award

 

Randy Holmquist, Canadian Electric Vehicles – WINNER (Errington)

Randy Holmquist, owner of Canadian Electric Vehicles (CEV), Errington, BC converted his car to electric in the 1990s as a hobby – a starting point from which Holmquist has developed a successful global business.   CEV was established in 1995 with the initial focus to provide the designs and parts for converting gas vehicles to non-polluting electric.  Conversions ranged from three wheeled vehicles, 22’ house boat and full-sized cars and trucks.   In 2000 CEV was approached by Los Angeles airport to design and build a zero emission aircraft refueling truck. Since then over 50 three ton trucks have been converted to electric and are in service in US, Dubai, Puerto Rico, Australia and in 2009 England.  The Might-E Tug, electric towing unit, was designed to reduce employee injuries by towing a variety of carts and equipment weighing up to 7,000 pounds.  Over 150 Might-E Tugs are now in use around the world in hospitals, ferry terminals, manufacturing plants and airports.  Holmquist’s primary focus is the Might-E Truck, a custom electric utility vehicle used as maintenance service vehicle, garbage pickup and grounds keeping.  The Might-E Truck is in operation at campuses, resorts, municipalities, fire stations, and federal and provincial governments.

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For more information and photos, please contact:

Carolyn Tatton

Executive Director, Mid-Island Science, Technology & Innovation Council

250.753.8324

ctatton@mistic.bc.ca