A Red Deer engineer continues to be recognized for his many years of community service.
Russ Wlad, Stantec executive vice-president and regional operating unit leader, was honoured by Engineers Canada with the meritorious service award for community service.
“As professionals, we have an obligation to set an example, not only in our careers and projects, but to help others in the communities where we live, work and play,” says Wlad.
Engineers Canada regulates the practice of engineering in the country.
Wlad has been a volunteer and fixture in central Alberta for more than two decades, supporting organizations such as Red Deer Minor Hockey, Red Deer Boys and Girls Club, Rotary, Central Alberta United Way and the Red Deer and District Food Bank.
As the committee chair, he led fundraising initiatives to support the opening of the Red Deer branch of the Canadian Institute for the Blind, and acted as a committee member for fundraising events for the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation and the 2019 Canada Winter Games, of which he was also a board member.
Wlad has also participated in national-level initiatives, including the Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer and Big Brothers and Sisters.
Wlad was recognized by the City of Red Deer with a 2016 mayor’s community builder award.
At Stantec, Wlad spearheaded the Stantec Feeds the Need Food Drive for the Red Deer and District Food Bank, which raised approximately $45,000 and collected nearly 50,000 pounds of food.
He also led the organizing of the annual Stantec golf tournament that raised funds for Red Deer’s Big Brothers and Sisters program over 10 years.