Squamish-based Echoflex Solutions has again earned praise with two recent prestigious awards for its innovative green technology.
EnOcean, the inventor of self-powered radio modules and micro energy harvesters, named Echoflex its worldwide Distributor of the Year on May 28.
Brian Aikens and Shawn Pedersen launched Echoflex Solutions in 2005, pioneering product development on EnOcean's "clean and green" wireless technology.
"The impact of Echoflex engineering has been manifested in terms of fast automation system installations, reduced energy consumption in hotels and commercial buildings and fast paybacks," states an EnOcean news release.
Echoflex provides sustainable control solutions for commercial facilities through innovative wireless technology that is self-powered from the surrounding environment.
Adding to the company-wide distinction, Aikens received the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTT) Top in Technology award May 25.
"It's humbling and gratifying all at the same time," said Aikens of the award. "Getting recognized by your peers is always a good thing."
The award is new for ASTT and is a part of their career awareness initiative, according to a company news release. The ASTT's mandate is to serve the public by regulating and supporting Technology Professionals' commitment to a safe, healthy, and sustainable society and environment.
"The new award rewards a technology professional who has demonstrated qualifications consistent with the high expectations of a B.C. professional committed to serving the public and acting as a role model to other British Columbians," states the release.
"Throughout his career, Aikens has mentored and coached many young engineers, provided work experience for university and college grads, and sponsored many school projects."
Aikens began his technology career in 1979, getting involved in controlling light early on at the particle level with the TRIUMF cyclotron at the UBC. Controlling light became a major focus with Aikens as his career led him to Douglas Lighting Controls in Burnaby where he headed up the engineering department for 12 years.
The company also earned praise as this year's Squamish Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year. The company now employs a team of 11 local residents and 15 representatives across North America.
"We went from sort of the desk under the stairs at home to 11 in our group, including three new engineers," said Aikens.
Echoflex's most recent addition in mid-May has Squamish-born Teresa Spani taking on the role of mechanical engineer.
