Harry E. Windland Remembered with Building Trades Scholarship

11/1/2021

The Edwardsville Community Foundation is pleased to announce the Harry K. & Carol A. Windland Building Trades Scholarship in Memory of Harry E. Windland. This $2500 award will go to a graduating senior at Edwardsville High School who will attend a technical or vocational school. ECF is proud to remember Mr. Harry E. Windland, who was known in Champaign, IL as “the man who could fix anything.”

Harry E. Windland (1913- 1998) was born in Mounds, IL. During the Great Depression he worked a variety of construction and mechanical jobs until the economy improved. Except for his time as an Electrician’s Mate in the US Navy during WWII, Mr. Windland was self-employed for 25 years while becoming a master in all of the building trades. He went on to own Mounds Supply Company, a supplier of plumbing, heating and electrical materials. He ended his career in the Maintenance Department of Champaign, IL public schools, where he became the Chief Mechanic. The sponsors for this scholarship are Harry K. and Carol A. Windland, Harry E. Windland's son and daughter-in-law.

“There is a pervasive idea in America that everyone must have a degree from a four-year college to have a successful career. Nothing could be further from the truth. A career in the skilled trades offers immense satisfaction at seeing one’s effort materialize in making something or restoring something to its original condition,” Harry K. Windland said.

“ECF looks forward to administering this award for the benefit of EHS seniors who will pursue a vocational or technical education,” Pam Farrar, ECF Executive Director said. “We know that trades such as plumbing, carpentry or HV/AC are in demand and this award supports individuals to pursue these fields,” Farrar added.

Criteria for the award include a genuine interest in the building trades, a brief essay, a letter of recommendation and competent communication skills. Applications for this award are available at the EHS Guidance office and are due January 31, 2022.

Click here to donate to the Harry K. & Carol A. Windland Building Trades Scholarship in memory of Harry E. Windland

Donations can also be mailed to ECF-Windland Building Trades Scholarship, PO Box 102, Edwardsville, IL 62025