Technical Assistant George Mawhinnie has celebrated reaching the 25 years mark working at the Falkirk Campus.
Based in the Construction workshops, former professional footballer and youth coach George, began his career at the then Falkirk College of Technology on April 14, 1994. However, his association with the campus goes back even further as he had previously completed a Bricklaying Apprenticeship at the college between 1974-77.
Conscientious George has always had a strong community spirit and throughout his career has been keen to support the learning and development of the students and staff. This has led him to take up the role of Health and Safety Officer and UNISON union representative within the Falkirk Campus.
He has also battled back from a serious illness when in 2014, George was told to change the way he lived after suffering a heart attack on returning home from work one day. He had to take six months off work to recover and also get used to a special fitness programme devised by FVC’s Leisure Facilities Coordinator Waimun Lee and a physiotherapist at Forth Valley Hospital. After several all clears from his doctors he continues to be a Falkirk Campus gym regular and is an inspiration to all staff and students looking to get fit.
He is pictured here receiving a £500 cheque and personal letter of congratulations written by Principal Dr Ken Thomson, from Hannah Ritchie, Director of Curriculum for the Department of Care, Sport and Construction.
George, who played football and coached youth players at Stenhousemuir, St Mirren and Rangers (coaching) said: “If anyone had said to me when I first started that I would still be here 25 years later, I would not have believed them. When I first came here I was coaching Gairdoch Youth team and it seemed to be an extension of helping to develop young people, as I was helping the apprentices who were training in the Construction Department.
“I have had the opportunity to work with lecturers and support staff across all departments and also discuss important matters with the Senior Management Team in my time as Health and Safety Officer and UNISON rep and it has been very rewarding. I have learned not to carry any grudges and move on to the next thing and that has served me well as we have all managed to change behaviours for the better of everyone here at the college.
“It was good to receive a nice letter from the boss and a cheque for £500 to mark this milestone.”
Hannah, said: “It is a pleasure to present George with his Long Service Award. George is an invaluable member of the team at Forth Valley College. For the past 25 years, he has used his skills and expertise to support high quality learning and teaching within Construction, and continues now as a member of the Department of Care, Sport and Construction. George promotes and develops health and safety best practice that benefits staff and students across the college. I look forward to working with George for many more years to come.”
Principal Dr Ken Thomson, who also recently celebrated 25 years working at the college, said: “Congratulations to George. He has been, and continues to be, a great asset to the college and a true ambassador.”