Calgary, AB, Canada, January 6, 2026 – Di-Corp is excited to announce the recipients of the 2026 Di-Corp Don Peteherych Awards for students at the University of Calgary (U of C). These awards were created to honour the enduring legacy of Don Peteherych, a notable former partner of what is now known as Di-Corp. Recognized as a remarkable force in Western Canada’s oilfield service industry, Don’s commitment and contributions have had a lasting impact on the sector.
Valued at up to $3,000 per recipient, the Don Peteherych bursary is awarded to up to three continuing students in the fields of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering or Oil & Gas Engineering. The 2026 recipients of the bursary are Talus Josephson, Frank Dang, and Karna Kokame. All three recipients are Chemical Engineering students with the Schulich School of Engineering and will receive $3000.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude for your generosity in supporting students like me. Receiving this award means so much, not only because it helps ease my financial burden, but also because it reminds me that my hard work and persistence are being recognized,” writes recipient Frank Dang. “I’ve found a strong sense of purpose in the energy industry. I am deeply fascinated by the challenges of the subsurface and the innovation happening in Canada’s energy sector. This scholarship motivates me to continue working hard, not just in my studies, but also through my involvement with the Petroleum and Energy Society and the Industrial Design Club, where I’ve had the opportunity to apply engineering skills to real-world projects.”
“Thank you so much for your generous support! Receiving these awards has truly made a difference in my university experience,” writes recipient Karna Kokame. “This support has not only eased financial pressures, but also motivated me to keep striving to excel and to give back to the community. Thank you again for believing in students like me and for investing in our futures. Your kindness and commitment to supporting education are deeply appreciated.”
“Thank you so much for choosing me for this award. Without awards like this, I would not be able to pursue post-secondary education,” writes recipient Talus Josephson. “Beyond my own family interests, I want to be able to help others, which is why I chose to study chemical engineering. Chemical engineers directly affect the cost of living through daily costs such as heating, fuel and electricity prices, alongside having a direct impact on the environment. As one of the only students in my program who did not come from a wealthy household, I feel I can bring a viewpoint and understanding to the industry that is severely lacking. Through this, I hope to make life easier for those who come from low-income households and to enable others to break the cycle as I am doing. This award has brought me one step closer to accomplishing these goals so, once again, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation.“
Di-Corp established the Don Peteherych bursaries following Don’s passing in 2009. We are pleased to continue honouring his memory by supporting students dedicated to advancing the Canadian energy industry, which Don cherished. Through this initiative, we aim to foster the growth of the next generation of leaders who will carry forward his legacy and contribute to the sector.
U of C students interested in applying for the Don Peteherych Bursary can learn more here: https://www.ucalgary.ca/registrar/awards/don-peteherych-bursary.
