Wayne McLaughlin is a Joiner within the Works Department in the Estates Directorate.

Can you tell us a little about your role?

My name is Wayne McLaughlin, and I currently work as a Joiner in the Works Department for the Estates Directorate. Before coming to Queens, I was a self-employed joiner for 22 years, working on all types of jobs, from installing new decking to second fixing of houses and extensions. 

What does a typical day look like for you?

I have really enjoyed working at Queen's over the last three years due to the variety of work I am carrying out. There are no two days the same in the Works Department. My work can vary from repairing fire doors, which is a large task as there are thousands of fire doors across the University, to easing doors or door handles, installing locks into doors, filing cabinets, cupboards, lockers, etc. I would regularly put up shelving across the faculties, as well as paintings, pictures, notice boards, safes, and signage. I work with all types of material, such as Perspex, plastic, Trespa, glass, metal, and of course, wood. These materials would be used in fitting Laboratory benching, hygienic cladding to kitchen and toilet areas, guttering, repairing tiles and PVC in shower areas, as well as resealing showers and fitting glass shower screens.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

I really enjoy working with my colleagues in the Works Department and working across the trades to get jobs completed for the staff and students of the campus. There is a real sense of teamwork and camaraderie within the works yard. We have built up good relations with the various Building Liaison Officers and staff right across campus, and I enjoy going into all the areas to see welcoming faces.

As well as working around the campus, I have also helped other departments like the gardeners and our sustainability team in smaller projects such as installing vegetable planters in the PEC and Elms Village, as well as helping our Safety Services team with making bespoke footstools used by the reception staff in the McClay library.

Can you share a standout moment or experience that's stayed with you during your time at Queen's?

A memorable moment that happened quite recently was when four team members were leaving our department and university through the VSS. Members of the Buildings Team and I built a BBQ during our lunch breaks using second-hand, recycled materials. We then used it to host a farewell lunch for our colleagues, which was a really enjoyable way to bring the team together.

About Wayne

Outside of work, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?

In my spare time, I really enjoy getting away to my caravan, which is in Cranfield, Co. Down. I find this very relaxing. While here, I enjoy reading books, walking along the beach, and watching movies.

What advice or insight would you share with someone new to Queen's?

If I were to give someone advice, thinking about applying for a job at Queen's, I would say, ‘go for it, and you won’t regret it’, and for those who have only recently started, I would say please take time to speak with other members of staff and build up good relations across the campus. When out walking in your lunch hour, take the time to admire the nice environment of the built and natural surroundings that we work in.