INUVIK - In 1991, Wayne Allen took his broom into Sir Alexander Mackenzie school for the first time and he hasn't looked back.

The custodian has been on the job for 15 years and was recently honoured for his long-term dedication to the school.

Wayne Allen has served as a custodian at Sir Alexander Mackenzie school for 15 years. He was recently awarded for his long-term commitment and is happy to be a part of the education facility. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Allen said he enjoys spending time at the school and is always available to lend a hand to staff and students.

"There are various duties in the position," said Allen.

"I find myself doing everything from cleaning to moving desks and stuff."

Allen prides himself in being a part of the school and helping students.

"I'm glad to help wherever I can," he said.

Allen's day usually starts at 3:30 p.m., when the students are done for the day.

"Before I go to work, I like to spend time with some elders uptown and have some coffee," said Allen.

"Once the students have left the building, I get started on the daily routine."

The routine consists of cleaning all the halls and classrooms in the building.

Allen is one of four custodians entrusted with cleaning the school, along with head custodian Rosa Kayotuk, Steven Loreen, and Henry Keevik.

The Grade 5/6 wing is Allen's territory and he takes great pride in his work.

"It is important to like what you do for a career," said Allen.

"This job is what I like doing and it keeps me going."

Allen can be found doing many odd-jobs and errands for anyone in the school during the week.

"I bring classroom orders to them from the office and things like that," he said.

Allen has a message for the students of the school and youth in town.

"I'd like to encourage the students that are going onto high school and tell them about what careers are available for them," said Allen.