Bowie the star man at IOR Scotland dinner

Drew Bowie received the prestigious Kooltech Award as more than 540 guests gathered for the 44th IOR Scotland Annual Dinner at the Double Tree Hilton in Glasgow.

The presentation recognised an outstanding career in refrigeration which began more than 57 years ago at James Kilpatrick (later Balfour Kilpatrick) and included a 37-year stint with Turners (later Hussmann), followed by spells at Project First and Technical Retail Services, from where he recently retired.

IOR Chair Danny Watson revealed that Bowie’s dedication to the industry saw him mentor many young apprentices along the way. It also earned him the nickname ‘Prince of Darkness’ because he would often appear in the middle of the night to assist a struggling engineer! 

Ryan Smith received the Apprentice of the Year award (above) with Blaine Feeney of KB Refrigeration runner-up (below)

Ryan Smith, of AE Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, was named Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Absolute Chilled), with Blaine Feeney of KB Refrigeration runner-up (sponsored by Yellow Jacket).  IOR Scotland Vice Chair Jason Fraser thanked Aspen Pumps Group for again donating a range of equipment to be used by young engineers studying at Glasgow Kelvin College. There was also a special mention for a large donation several years ago by Refrigeration Aberdeen Ltd, which has allowed considerable funding towards training in Scotland.

Jason Fraser paid tribute to Dr Forbes Pearson

Fraser also paid an emotional tribute to one of the original founders of IOR Scotland, Dr Forbes Pearson, who died earlier this year. He said: “In 1975, the Scottish Institute of Refrigeration was born and led by Dr Pearson, one of the reasons we are gathered here tonight. Can we all take a moment for a round of applause, appreciating Forbes’ contributions and to share our condolences to his family.’’

It was announced that IOR Scotland has raised more than £60,000 for its chosen charities over the years, with money raised in 2024 benefitting Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol & Drugs, which worked with more than 3,000 families across Scotland last year alone.

They evening also saw Danny Watson thank “three remarkable individuals’’ for their contributions to IOR Scotland.  Former Chairs Julie Murray and Norrie Fraser, along with long-serving former Treasurer Alistair Fowler, will all step down from the IOR Scotland Committee at the end of the year. Watson added: “Collectively they have made an immeasurable difference to the IOR in Scotland and without them all of this would not be possible.’’

Chair Danny Watson thanked Julie Murray, Norrie Fraser and Alistair Fowler for their contributions to IOR Scotland