Entec and Ravago Americas are proud to announce James Richards, a plastics engineering student at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell), as the first recipient of the Charlie Burke Memorial Scholarship.

This scholarship, established in 2025, provides meaningful financial support as James prepares to graduate this spring and begin his career in the plastics industry.

The scholarship honors the legacy of Charlie Burke, a beloved Entec team member for more than 32 years and a 35-year veteran of the plastics industry. Charlie was also a proud alum of the UMass Lowell Plastics Engineering program (BS ’89, MS ’91) and an active member of the department’s Industry Advisory Board. He passed away tragically in a motorcycle accident on October 5, 2024.

To celebrate Charlie’s life and lasting impact, Entec employees came together to raise more than $27,000 to establish the scholarship. Ravago Americas contributed an additional $25,000, creating a lasting endowment that will support future generations of plastics engineering students at UMass Lowell.

James Richards, a senior from San Diego, CA, will graduate in May 2026. As an out-of-state and first-generation college student, he has worked throughout his time at UMass Lowell to help fund his education. The scholarship will allow him to complete his final semester and graduate as planned.

Entec recently received a heartfelt letter from James expressing his gratitude. Below are excerpts shared on behalf of all who contributed to making this scholarship possible:

“Having traveled across the country with only what I could fit in my car, I dreamed of graduating debt-free.

Without your support, I would have struggled to pay for my final semester in time to receive my diploma. Your generosity has lifted me up as a first-generation college student to achieve something I could not have imagined four years ago.

Thank you for reminding me that the kindness we show others reaches far beyond what we can see. While I am still just a college student, my education has set me on a path toward a career that will reward my hard work — and allow me to help others pursue their own dreams.

As an engineer, words are not my strongest skill, but I hope even a fraction of my gratitude comes through. Truly, thank you beyond my wildest dreams.”

Entec and Ravago are honored to carry forward Charlie’s legacy through this scholarship, investing in the future of the plastics industry and supporting students like James as they pursue their goals.