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Alberta Electrical Alliance Christmas Events Have Raised Over $100,000 for The Magic of Christmas and $45,000 for The Edmonton Food Bank Since 2013

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 17:50:17 GMT

The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) has once again demonstrated the power of community and generosity through its annual Christmas events. Since 2013, these festive gatherings have raised just over $100,000 for The Magic of Christmas , a charity dedicated to spreading holiday cheer to families in need. Additionally, since 2022, the AEA’s support for Edmonton’s Food Bank has grown to an impressive $45,418 — with significant contributions from BJ Electric Supplies Ltd . over the past two years.

The annual AEA Christmas luncheon is more than just a celebration; it’s a cherished tradition that brings the electrical industry together to make a tangible difference. This year’s event continued to highlight the importance of unity and giving back during the holiday season.

Brittany Taylor, President of the AEA Edmonton Regional Board of Directors, shared the significance of the occasion:

“The AEA Christmas luncheon is an event we look forward to all year. It’s a special time of unity for our industry, where we can take a pause from our hectic everyday lives to connect on a more personal level. Supporting local charities, especially during the holiday season, holds a special place in our hearts. It brings us joy to know we’re making a difference for those facing difficult times. Donating to The Magic of Christmas and our local food bank reflects our commitment to giving back and strengthening our community.”

These contributions wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of AEA members, industry partners, and generous sponsors like BJ Electric, whose dedication helps ensure local families receive essential support during the holidays.

As the season of giving continues, the AEA remains committed to fostering a spirit of generosity and unity — proving that, together, we can brighten lives and strengthen our community.

To all who contributed, participated, and supported these efforts:

Thank you for making the magic happen!

The Alberta Electrical Alliance Christmas Events Fundraise $26,741 for Local Charities

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 18:39:39 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) proudly announces that this year’s AEA Christmas Fundraisers collectively raised $26,741 for The Magic of Christmas Charity Calgary and the Edmonton Food Bank.

This year’s events also included awarding scholarships and achievement milestones in recognition and celebration of Alberta Electrical Alliance members and the electrical community.

“As always, the electrical community opened their pocketbooks to support the local Magic of Christmas charity with a record $10,000 donation,” says Greg Bedard, Vendor Relations Manager at Rexel Utility. “Not only was there reacquainting with friends and smiling faces, but an excitement in the air of being free from the world’s worries—if only for a few hours.”

AEA member companies and individuals rose to the challenge, supporting both charitable organisations through generous cash, food and toy contributions. Main corporate contributors this year included: BJ Electric, City Electric Supply, EECOL and Troy Life & Fire Safety.

Over the years, the AEA has donated a grand total of over $100,000 to Calgary’s Magic of Christmas Charity.

“From a personal standpoint, the whole event warmed my heart, eased my tension, prepared me for the upcoming holiday season and re-enforced that fact that there is still life in this world,” says Bedard. “Thank you to the organizers as they are always well prepared and make it an easy event to come to and have fun at.”

For more information, please contact:  

Tara Ternes 

Alberta Electrical Alliance, Executive Director

 tara@albertaelec.com  

The Magic of Christmas Charity 

https://themagicofchristmas.org

Edmonton’s Food Bank

https://www.edmontonsfoodbank.com/

Thanks to our main corporate donors:

The Alberta Electrical Alliance Christmas Fundraisers Bring in $9,700 for Local Charities

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 16:05:33 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) proudly announces that this year’s AEA Christmas Fundraisers collectively raised $9,700 for The Magic of Christmas Charity in Calgary and Edmonton’s Food Bank.

The AEA is a long time supporter of both organizations and normally raises funds through the contribution of their members during the AEA’s Annual Regional Christmas events. Despite these events being cancelled due to COVID-19, the AEA chose to carry on their charitable tradition and took the fundraisers online.

“We realized that this year, our communities need us now more than ever,” says Tara Ternes, Alberta Electrical Alliance Chief Executive Officer. “It was our honour to team up with our incredible members to help ensure that every family had gifts to open and a meal to eat at Christmastime.”

AEA member companies and individuals rose to the challenge, supporting the fundraisers through their generous contributions. Main corporate contributors this year included: City Electric Supply, EECOL, EWEL and Prolux Lighting.

Over the years, the AEA has donated a grand total of over $50,000 to Calgary’s Magic of Christmas Charity:

“The Magic of Christmas has been the humble beneficiary of the AEA Calgary Region fundraising campaign since 2014. Despite the annual in-person event being cancelled this year, the generosity of the AEA members once again blew our minds,” says Scott Perley, The Magic of Christmas President. “We’re grateful to the AEA and its members who donated and helped us to ensure that Christmas wasn’t cancelled this year for the families we visited.”

For more information, please contact:  

Tara Ternes 

Alberta Electrical Alliance, Executive Director

 tara@albertaelec.com  

The Magic of Christmas Charity 

https://themagicofchristmas.org

Edmonton’s Food Bank

https://www.edmontonsfoodbank.com/

Thanks to our corporate contributors:

AEA Women's Network Profile: Tara Tomlinson

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 21:54:05 GMT

Setting her sights high and finding success in Alberta's electrical industry

"I started at EECOL in 1998 and I haven't looked back."

Tara Tomlinson never underestimates herself — and neither should you.

22 years ago, Tara had just received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Calgary with a focus in Physical Anthropology. Like many students, Tara was working in the restaurant industry to save up to pursue her Masters degree. But life sometimes takes us down unexpected paths.

That summer, some of Tara’s regular customers from a nearby business picked up on her genuine nature, her eagerness to learn and her affinity for interacting with others. They began a campaign to convince Tara that the electrical industry, and EECOL in particular, might just be the right fit for her.

Tara initially brushed off the idea, but it didn’t take her too long to come around and accept a job interview at EECOL. She got the job. Family and friends thought she was crazy — she was happy to prove them wrong.

“I started at EECOL in 1998 and I haven't looked back. I've progressed through the company for 22 years and I've been happy that I've chosen this path, even though I had no background in it. I'm very happy where I'm at,” Tara says.

Tara Tomlinson

EECOL Electric
Regional Sales Supervisor, Data & Lighting

Phone: (403) 243-5594
Email: tomlinsont@eecol.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-tomlinson-57718055/

EECOL Electric

EECOL Calgary (Regional Office)

11004 - 48 Street SE

Website: http://www.eecol.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EecolElectric

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EECOL

What is the AEA Women's Network?

As a member of the Alberta Electrical Alliance, you have the strength of an industry at your back. We work to advance the business and professional interests of our members — all of our members. It's no secret that women are underrepresented in skilled trades, including the electrical industry. But the women who have chosen our industry are powerful and inspiring. We need more of them.

That's why we created the AEA Women's Network. It's not just about connecting the women who are already working in the electrical industry (although we do that and it's a lot of fun), we're looking to send a message to any woman considering joining our industry:

You are our future.

The Alberta Electrical Alliance to Launch New Digital Initiatives

Tue, 05 May 2020 21:51:31 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) released a video message from their Provincial Board of Directors thanking members and announcing that new digital initiatives from the AEA are on the way. As a non-profit organization, the AEA typically funds local scholarships and bursaries through their various social events held throughout the year.

“Postponing this year’s social events has been difficult to say the least. But the AEA is adaptable and resilient, like many of you out there,” says Tracy Gilbert, Vice President of the AEA’s Provincial Board of Directors. “Our top priority is ensuring that we continue to provide value to our members. With this new reality of physical distancing, it’s more important than ever that we embrace technology and explore ways that we can connect virtually.”

Like many industries and organizations impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, the AEA is pivoting their approach to continue connecting electrical industry members while physical distancing requirements remain in place. AEA membership benefits, like industry resources, group benefit insurance programs, education and member discounts, will continue in addition to their upcoming digital offerings.

“Our Board has been working hard to think of new and exciting ways for the AEA to stay engaged with our members until we can all be together again,” says Tara Ternes, Alberta Electrical Alliance CEO. “We’re looking forward to providing our members with valuable virtual opportunities—and a little light-hearted fun. Keep an eye on our social media channels and our website for upcoming announcements.”

For more information, please contact:

Tara Ternes

Alberta Electrical Alliance, CEO

tara@albertaelec.com

The Alberta Electrical Alliance Postpones Electrical Learning Expo

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 22:37:47 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) has chosen to respect the evolving uncertainty and development of concerns related to the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) by postponing the Electrical Learning Expo planned for March 25, 2020 in Edmonton, Alberta.

“While the Expo is an integral event for Alberta’s electrical industry, the AEA recognizes the importance of prioritizing the health and well-being of our industry members,” says Tara Ternes, Alberta Electrical Alliance CEO. “Although it’s difficult to offer certainty in future planning at this time, our intent is to postpone the Electrical Learning Expo until fall 2020 and be diligent in providing further details as they become available.”

The AEA’s Electrical Learning Expo has been a highly revered annual event for the past 26 years, facilitating an educational networking experience that brings together all facets of the electrical industry.

For more information, please contact:

Tara Ternes
Alberta Electrical Alliance, CEO
tara@albertaelec.com

The Alberta Electrical Alliance Launches the Power-Up Network with Stelpro

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 17:54:10 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) proudly announces the launch of their multi-channel digital marketing platform exclusive to Alberta's electrical industry: the Power-Up Network. The AEA’s Power-Up Network welcomes Stelpro as their premier network partner.

“We couldn’t be happier to have Stelpro on board with this exciting new initiative,” says Tara Ternes, Alberta Electrical Alliance Executive Director, “The AEA is all about the power of connection and our mission is to connect Alberta’s electrical industry in order to strengthen the industry as a whole. The Power-Up Network is an invaluable tool that’s taking that mission to a whole new level.”

Power-Up Network subscribers gain valuable exposure to the AEA's 7,000 members and a suite of digital marketing assets designed to connect them with product manufacturers, contractors, agencies, electricians and other industry professionals. Digital marketing assets include: a year-long subscription to the Power-Up Network, custom brand microsite, social media campaign, Power-Up newsletter exposure, lead generation, search engine optimization, a live analytics dashboard, and more. Best of all, members of the Power-Up Network have the credibility of the Alberta Electrical Alliance behind them.

“We’re very happy with the opportunity to come on board with the Power-Up Network and partner with the Alberta Electrical Alliance,” says Stéphane Lettre, Stelpro Strategic Marketing Director, “We look forward to connecting with the AEA’s 7,000 members and showcasing the design and technological innovations we bring to the electric heat market, which will be well-conveyed via the dynamic microsite and social media campaign of the program.”

For more information and advertising opportunities:
Tara Ternes
Alberta Electrical Alliance, Executive Director
tara@albertaelec.com

Alberta Electrical Alliance’s Calgary Region Raises Over $8,000 for The Magic of Christmas Charity

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 16:39:25 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) proudly announces that this year’s Annual Calgary Region Christmas Lunch raised over $8,000 for The Magic of Christmas Charity . Since 2014, the AEA has donated a grand total of $44,943 to the local organization.

“Each and every individual who attends this event helps thousands of families in Calgary,” says Tara Ternes, Alberta Electrical Alliance Executive Director. “This time of year is about giving and no family should miss out on experiencing the magic of Christmas. We’re honoured to support such a wonderful organization.”

AEA member companies make these annual donations possible. Main contributors each year include: City Electric Supply , EECOL , Prolux Lighting , Optics Lighting , and Candela Group .

The Magic of Christmas is a 100% volunteer, non-denominational charity based in Calgary. Every Christmas Eve, they load up Calgary Transit buses with hundreds of gifts and volunteers dressed as Santa and his elves delivering Christmas spirit into the homes and hearts of those who need it most.

“When I’m putting together gift packages, I imagine the happy faces that will open them on Christmas,” says Lise Audet, The Magic of Christmas representative. “This year, we’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of Calgarians and we could really use additional volunteers to help us sort through donations. If you do it once, you’ll love it and end up coming back every year!”

For more information, please contact:

Tara Ternes
Alberta Electrical Alliance, Executive Director
tara@albertaelec.com

The Magic of Christmas Charity
https://themagicofchristmas.org

Capital Region Electric Club to Become the Alberta Electrical Alliance's Edmonton Region

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 19:40:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Alliance (AEA) proudly announces that the Capital Region Electric Club (CREC) will become the Alberta Electric Alliance’s Edmonton Region. The shift will take place over the next few months, with CREC’s evolution to become the AEA’s Edmonton Region being finalized by January 2020.

“This move just makes sense,” says Shaq Bitar, CREC President, “CREC members will have access to more industry discounts and members will pay one membership fee instead of two. Like the AEA’s Calgary Region, the AEA’s Edmonton Region will have its own Regional Board of Directors responsible for organizing and executing events to fund local scholarships and bursaries. At CREC, we recognized that the Alberta Electrical Alliance is on an exciting path and we wanted to join them on it.”

This news comes right on the heels of the AEA’s name change, announced mid-September. Along with the name change, the AEA also announced their continuing commitment to the electrical industry and their members, exciting new initiatives and an elevated social media presence. The AEA is gaining fresh momentum and the CREC merger is a timely addition.

“The timing couldn’t be better for CREC to join us as the AEA’s Edmonton Region,” says Tara Ternes, Alberta Electrical Alliance Executive Director, “With our history of working and collaborating with each other, we’re old friends and know that we work well together. This only stands to strengthen the AEA as an organization and benefit a greater membership.”

Until January 2020, details for upcoming CREC events can be found at crec.ca .

For more information, please contact:

Tara Ternes
Alberta Electrical Alliance, Executive Director
tara@albertaelec.com

The Alberta Electrical Association Becomes The Alberta Electrical Alliance

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 18:02:29 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Calgary, AB: The Alberta Electrical Association (AEA) is evolving alongside the electrical industry. To reflect their growth and ongoing commitment to members, they’ve chosen to change the non-profit organization’s name to the Alberta Electrical Alliance. The recognized AEA abbreviation stays intact; along with their core values of education, connection, networking, strength, power, and advocacy.

As an Alliance, the AEA hopes to convey a statement to the industry: they’re here to align with all facets of the electrical industry; from manufacturers to wholesalers, agents to inspectors, utilities to contractors, and everyone in between. As the industry grows and changes, the AEA is focused on building strong industry connections and inviting new innovators to join a dynamic Alliance that gives back to the trade.

“There’s a lot of energy and momentum in the electrical industry right now. Things are modernizing, changing, and evolving," says Tara Ternes, Alberta Electrical Alliance Executive Director, "The AEA recognizes that and we want to take our organization to the next level. It’s important to us that we align with all of the different pockets of the industry. Our mission is to embrace the diversity of the industry, continue to support our members and create new connections across Alberta.”

The AEA will continue to organize industry events throughout the year and hope to increase the funds raised for their member scholarships and bursaries. Other initiatives include promoting diversity through the AEA Women’s Network, creating advertising opportunities through the AEA Power-Up Network, and expanding their membership into different parts of the industry such as renewable energy, oil and gas, and automation.

A greater online presence can also be expected. The AEA will utilize their social media channels to announce news and events, share member stories, and bring awareness to the Alberta Electrical Alliance’s ongoing endeavours to strengthen and support Alberta’s electrical industry.

For more information, please contact:

Tara Ternes
Alberta Electrical Alliance, Executive Director
tara@albertaelec.com