Recognizing that vocational instructor training is the lifeblood of the plumbing industry, the World Plumbing Council has launched a scholarship program designed to help trainers and lecturers expand their knowledge of plumbing systems.

The World Plumbing Council Scholarship for Trainers-Lecturers will award an annual $5000 (U.S.) grant to one full-time or part-time trainer-lecturer with an accredited training organization. The winner will have the opportunity to visit a country to research its plumbing training and other aspects of the industry to further his or her knowledge.

Scholarship applicants must be employed as a plumbing lecturer/trainer in a full-time or part-time capacity with an appropriately accredited vocational training organization, demonstrate leadership ability, and have several years of teaching experience. The deadline to enter is July 31, 2003. Interested parties can download an application by visiting www.worldplumbing.org or by contacting the WPC Secretariat c/o The Institute of Plumbing, 64 Station Lane, Hornchurch RM12 6NB, England, +44 (0)1708 472791, fax: +44 (0)1708 448987, secretariat@worldplumbing.org. Applications will need to include at least two references and a letter of recommendation from the applicant's employer or employers in their home country. Applications can be e-mailed as attachments or mailed to the Secretariat. The WPC Executive Board will review all applications and announce the winner no later than Sept. 30, 2003.

After completing the program, applicants will be required to write a report on the training system, standards, technology and other issues relating to their findings from the country or countries in which they have visited as part of their travel. Applicants will need to attend industry meetings and participate in public relations events for the program and sponsoring organizations. The winner will be required to complete the program in 12 months from the date it was awarded.