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NEW PATHWAY LAUNCH: NTDC National Education Technical Professional (ETP) Pathway
23 November 2022
Russell Wilson, Senior Technician at Heriot-Watt University speaks to us about what it meant to be nominated for ‘Outstanding Technician of The Year’ award at THE Awards 2022.
“It was an amazing event to be a part of and it was great opportunity to catch up with some friends whilst making some new ones. It’s fantastic that technicians have this chance to gain the visibility and recognition for their work and to be shortlisted amongst a list of such talented and inspiring individuals was mind blowing.”
Russell celebrating with Dr Mark Ross, Associate Professor in Exercise Physiology at Heriot-Watt.
What did it mean to you to be nominated?
To be nominated really does make you realise that the extra effort and hard work is worth it. In the past I have sometimes felt as if my work has been taking for granted and I have wondered how much impact or difference I sometimes play in my role. To be nominated for such a prestigious national award signifies that this isn’t the case at all and that my efforts are indeed recognised.
I was stunned when I heard the news and would like to pay credit to the individuals who have inspired and supported me to pursue my ambitions. This whole experience has given me a massive confidence boost and reinforces that I make a positive difference daily within my role.
Russell poses proudly with Tech Connects friend Gemma Black, Technical Services Manager at the University of Leicester.
What does this type of recognition mean to technicians?
Recognition and visibility is something that technicians have had to fight for over time and we owe a lot to Kelly Vere and the whole Technician Commitment team. Technicians are often the unsung heroes and without their vital input learning and teaching, research, enterprise and commercialisation would not be possible.
These awards and the associated recognition act as a thank you making technicians really feel valued as a crucial member of the wider team, because technicians aren’t just support staff, technicians make it happen.
“I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has helped support me to get to where I am in my career to date. This includes my former institution and colleagues at Edinburgh Napier University, my new workplace and workmates at Heriot-Watt University, the Techs Connect group and my colleagues at the IST and the Science Council.”
Find out more about Russell’s NTDC-funded virtual exhibition ‘Technicians - The Next Generation‘
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