(ABILENE, Texas) – “Humbled.”
That simple word from Greg Nicholas described his feelings after being named one of this year’s recipients of the Texas State Technical College Chancellor’s Cornerstone Award. Nicholas is the program team lead for the Welding Technology programs in Abilene and Sweetwater, as well as the Occupational Safety and Environmental Compliance program in Abilene.
“To have an impact on people who nominated me for this award is the highlight of my career,” he said. “I enjoy being part of the TSTC team, and for them to see me as a cornerstone is huge.”
Since 2001, the TSTC Chancellor’s Cornerstone Award has honored teammates who steadfastly demonstrate the college’s core values of excellence, accountability, service and integrity.
“A cornerstone is an essential component in the foundation of a building,” said Mike Reeser, TSTC’s chancellor and CEO. “Similarly, our cornerstone principles are what make us strong as an organization. Without these core values and the teammates who embody them every day, we simply would not be the same.”
Nicholas began his tenure at TSTC as a Welding Technology instructor at the Breckenridge and Brownwood campuses, later transferring to Abilene, where he has taken on broader leadership responsibilities.
Despite the change in roles, his focus remains on mentorship and building a strong learning culture.
“I want to be a mentor not just to our students, but also to the instructors I work alongside,” Nicholas said.
Lei Barnes, a Welding Technology instructor and longtime friend of Nicholas, praised his character and leadership.
“Greg always puts others first,” Barnes said. “He makes sure his teams are equipped to succeed and always keeps the best interests of TSTC and its students at heart. His dedication to the college and to developing Texas’ workforce is inspiring.”
As Nicholas looks to the future, he remains committed to TSTC’s mission.
“I’m proud to be part of a college that values family, mentorship and student success,” he said. “I want to help ensure that spirit continues.”
Registration for TSTC’s fall semester is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.