Robert Gordon’s College has named Sir Ian Wood as the first recipient of its newly established Pioneer Award, recognising a career marked by international business success, philanthropic leadership, and a lasting commitment to education in the north-east of Scotland.
Sir Ian, who graduated from RGC in 1960 as part of the Class of ’60, was presented with the award in recognition of his transformative contributions both to the College and to communities across Scotland and beyond. The RGC Pioneer Award has been created to honour Gordonians whose achievements have made a meaningful difference on a global and local level.
During his time at the College, Sir Ian excelled academically and in sport, holding captaincies in rugby, cricket, and tennis. As a Mackenzie Scholar, he undertook a formative trip to Africa that helped shape his future ambitions, while his involvement in the Debating Society and School Choir reflected the breadth of his talents. He went on to graduate with first-class honours in Psychology from the University of Aberdeen before leading the family business to international success.
A Legacy Built in Stone and Steel
The award also marks the beginning of a year-long programme of initiatives celebrating the tenth anniversary of The Wood Foundation Centre for Science and Technology at RGC — recognised as the UK’s largest school teaching facility for science and technology. The Centre, made possible through the generosity of Sir Ian and his family via The Wood Foundation, provides world-class laboratories and workshops designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs.
The facility also houses the College’s Psychology department and supports a partnership with MIT, encouraging pupils to think innovatively and develop an entrepreneurial mindset.
Back at School
During a recent visit to the College, Sir Ian toured the facilities with pupils, seeing first-hand how the school has evolved since his own years there. He later delivered a lecture to S2 pupils, encouraging them to pursue their ideas with confidence, to seek experiences beyond the classroom, and to lead rather than observe.
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Kevin Reynard, Chair of the Board of Governors, said: “The RGC Pioneer Award reflects our commitment to recognising Gordonians whose innovation, leadership, and generosity have made a lasting impact. Sir Ian Wood exemplifies these qualities, and his return to the College is a powerful reminder of the value and far-reaching potential of a Robert Gordon’s College education.”
Robin Macpherson, Head of College, added: “We are delighted to celebrate Sir Ian Wood as the first recipient of the RGC Pioneer Award. His outstanding career, philanthropic dedication, and lasting connection to the College continues to inspire our pupils and the wider community.”
Sir Ian Wood, Founder and President of The Wood Foundation, said he greatly enjoyed his visit to the College and valued the opportunity to share his experiences with pupils. He expressed how impressed he was by the pupils’ engagement, noting that they asked some very penetrating questions, and described Robert Gordon’s College as a hugely inspiring school.
