CONSTRUCTION industry stalwart Tom Russell’s contribution to the industry has been recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award by trade body, The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS).
Tom’s career with companies such as Swift Horsman, Astins and Indeglas has seen him take on important roles on many standout buildings ranging from the Edinburgh International Conference Centre and The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama through to NOMA Manchester and Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
He concluded his career by working on several award-winning educational buildings in Scotland including City of Glasgow College, University of Glasgow’s Advanced Research Centre, and Forth Valley College in his hometown of Falkirk.
On the Forth Valley project, Tom was senior site manager for Indeglas’ work on the design, supply and installation of internal glazed screens and doorsets. Works include fire rated, acoustic, and protective barrier screens to a variety of double height spaces.
Indeglas commercial director Iain McAlpine, who has worked with Tom for around 30 years, said that as a skilled tradesman, Tom has always understood the technical and logistical attributes required to successfully manage complex projects but the secret to his success comes in his ability to form longstanding relationships with those around him.
“I started working with Tom on the HCI Project in Clydebank when I was a trainee and he’s been a constant influence in my career ever since,” Iain explained. “No one could have been more supportive, generous, and genuinely interested in helping me and others keep going and become established. That has never changed and I’m grateful to have had him on my side.
“Tom joined Indeglas at a pivotal stage in our development, bringing a presence, determination and all-round attitude that typifies what he stands for personally, underlining the qualities that we want Indeglas to represent.
“Without a doubt, Tom is the strongest of role models and it’s up to the rest of us to strive to meet these standards; particularly if we want to see the people in our industry succeed and be happy to go to work every day.”
Jeanette MacIntyre, Indeglas MD, added, “Tom is described as one of the most generous and respected people in our sector; someone that championed the success of others above his own promotion.
“His attention to detail, not only in the level of workmanship he insisted upon, but also in the health and wellbeing of his team, drove productivity and ensured successful project outcomes. After managing multiple award-winning projects and celebrating the amazing buildings he has helped create, it is time to celebrate Tom for being the amazing person he is.”
