WETT 2024 Award of Excellence recipient: Patrick Bourque

The WETT Award of Excellence recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to advancing the objectives of WETT Inc. This year WETT is awarding two individuals for outstanding contributions.
 
Our second 2024 recipient is Patrick Bourque.

Patrick is a seasoned professional with a diverse background and a profound passion for the hearth industry. 

In February 1980, Pat made a significant career move by acquiring A1 Chimney Sweepers, a venture that showcased both his business acumen and unwavering commitment to providing essential services to the community. In 1988 he formed Maritime Fireplaces. Since inception, he worked closely with local fire departments and served on several steering committees, ensuring safety and community needs were paramount.

Throughout the years, he actively participated in the development of the Canadian wood energy industry, collaborating on various initiatives for the Canadian Wood Energy Institute and Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. (WETT). His dedication to advancing sustainable energy practices and fostering safe industry growth remains unwavering.

A-1 Chimney Sweepers and Maritime Fireplaces staff have had over 30 years’ volunteer service as Board members and at least 8 years of serving Presidents through the generosity and guidance of Pat.  He has always supported WETT, having all his sweeps and wood-product installers certified, at one time earning his company the distinction of having the most certified WETT technicians in one company. His WETT number, old 377, reflects his longstanding commitment to WETT and the industry as a whole.   His daughter Sarah’s number is 11381.

Pat also dedicated significant time and expertise to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association of Canada (HPBAC), serving as a board member for several years before ultimately assuming the role of President.

Today, Pat continues to be a driving force in his industry, seamlessly blending experience, leadership, and a forward-thinking vision for a sustainable future. His daughter Sarah is now heading up the company, ensuring contributions continue to shape and inspire positive change within the industry and beyond.