Matthias Jakob Memorial Scholarship Established

After Matthias Jakob, P.Geo., P.L.Eng, passed away suddenly in October 2022, colleagues and collaborators quickly suggested a memorial scholarship be established to honour Matthias.

In May 2023, John Clague, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon.), Engineers and Geoscientists BC Foundation Chair, announced that the Foundation would spearhead a scholarship in Matthias' name.

Matthias was an expert in landslide hazard and risk assessment of complex geohazards and his expertise was embraced globally in academia and among clients in the industry. In 2003, he joined the team at BGC Engineering, where he enjoyed working among geoscientists, technicians, engineering geologists, and geotechnical engineers.

The Matthias Jakob Memorial Scholarship is a tribute to recognize Matthias' enthusiasm for mentorship and his many contributions to the field. The $5,000 scholarship will be awarded annually to a BC university undergraduate student in engineering or geoscience, who is focusing on one or more of Matthias' passions: earth science, climate change, and the environment.

"MJ (Matthias) is often remembered for his creative problem solving, drive for continuous improvement in methods and for making work fun," said Steve Hedberg, P.Eng., P.Geo., President and CEO of BGC Engineering. "Field work with Matthias was always an adventure or a story to tell. His legacy will live on through the many talented engineers and geoscientists whom he mentored throughout his career. "

The goal is to raise $170,000 for the scholarship endowment. Through the generosity of friends, family and colleagues almost $65,000 has already been raised.

To contribute to the Matthias Jakob Memorial Scholarship fund, registrants can donate through their online account or mail a cheque to: The Engineers and Geoscientists BC Foundation, 200- 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC, V5C 6N2. Cheques must be made payable to the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Foundation. Please indicate in a memo to direct the donation to the Matthias Jakob Memorial Scholarship.

Tax receipts are issued for donations greater than $20. For information about the Foundation, please go to egbc.ca/Foundation.