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The Joseph Gregory Fernandez Memorial Scholarship
Joseph Gregory Fernandez
Joe was smart, funny, sincere, kind, a generous son and brother, and a loyal friend.
He truly loved the electrical profession and worked hard at every task he was assigned. Joe had an amazing work ethic, was a fast learner and always helped others during his classes and on job-sites. He became a mentor and friend to all he worked with.
Joe's sense of humor and sincerity will be missed by everyone.
Joe was a graduate of Northern Valley Old Tappan High School and attended The University of Rhode Island.
The Joseph Gregory Fernandez Memorial Scholarship will be offered to one eligible ETA applicant, in which the scholarship valued at $10,000 will go towards their Fall session tuition at ETA. This scholarship is only offered for our Fall session, beginning in September.
Application can be found below.
The MARK ANTHONY PLESCIA, SR. Memorial Scholarship
Mark Anthony Plescia, Sr.
Mark Anthony Plescia, Sr. was a hard-working, honest and giving man with incredible faith.
He proudly owned and operated Plescia Roofing. His family meant everything to him.
Mark was the guy who answered the phone, “What do you need? Where and when? I’m there for you anytime, day or night.”
He was a huge supporter of Saint Joseph Regional High School and was inducted in its Hall of Fame. He will be forever remembered for his generosity and quick smile.
The Mark Anthony Plescia, Sr. Memorial Scholarship will be offered to one eligible ETA applicant, in which the scholarship valued at $10,000 will go towards their Fall session tuition at ETA. This scholarship is only offered for our Fall session, beginning in September.
Application can be found below.
All Electrical Training Academy applicants are eligible to apply for and be considered for The Joseph Gregory Fernandez Memorial Scholarship and The Mark Anthony Plescia, Sr. Scholarship.
There will be one winner for each scholarship. Each scholarship, valued at $10,000, will go towards tuition for the Fall class session at the Electrical Training Academy. This scholarship is only offered for our Fall session, beginning in September.
All applicants must first submit their information in the Request More Information form, and then return here to submit their scholarship essay below.
Deadline: July 1, 2025
Winners to be announced in August 2025
The MICHAEL WIRWAS WOMEN IN INDUSTRY Memorial Scholarship
Michael Wirwas
THEA, in partnership with the Electrical Training Academy, is proud to offer full tuition to the ETA bootcamp to a deserving woman in memory of our colleague and friend, Michael Wirwas.
This scholarship to the program will give one woman the opportunity to train for a career in the electrical industry.
Michael Wirwas was a dedicated and valued member of the Thea Enterprises team for over 20 years. Working in our lighting controls division, he was an integral part of the success of the department and company. Mike was a kind, loving person who was a friend to all who knew him. An ardent mentor, he loved supporting and encouraging those in the industry to achieve their full potential.
Sadly, we lost Mike in late 2021 but his spirit and kindness will always be remembered. We have established this scholarship in his name as a way to honor his memory.
We hope this will inspire and unlock more opportunities for women to enter the trades.
This scholarship consists of full tuition to the Electric Training Academy Pre-Apprentice Program beginning in September 2025. Sponsored by THEA and Electrical Training Academy.