We all like to think that we’re doing our bit for the climate. Yet, reusing shopping bags, having a fancy water bottle, and buying second-hand clothes only goes so far – we also need businesses to join in to make a real impact.
Scottish Apprenticeship Week proves that they are.
From March 3 to 7, 2025, Scottish Apprenticeship Week celebrates the benefits of on-the-job learning for businesses, people, communities and the environment, shining a spotlight on apprentices such as Muir of Ord’s Alasdair Gillies.
Alasdair is ensuring Highland companies get greener – and stay that way – on his Modern Apprenticeship with energy systems firm Proterra Energy Ltd in Inverness.
The 22-year-old is one of three finalists in the Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category at this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Awards, held on February 27.
Alasdair impressed Proterra Energy Ltd bosses so much during work experience as part of the Kickstart Scheme that the firm asked him to stay on for a Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering Maintenance.
Involved in the installation and servicing of solar systems, wind turbines and hydro schemes, Alasdair also studied two days a week at Inverness College HUI during his first year.
Now, his net zero achievements include carrying out maintenance checks on a large solar array for a distillery client on the Isle of Islay, installing an on-site electric car charging station at Proterra HQ, and refurbishing a demonstration small wind turbine.
Carrying out work in all weathers and often in remote locations without complaint, Alasdair said: “Earning and learning on a Modern Apprenticeship means I can help my parents with living costs. I still live at home, so being able to contribute to the household income is important to me.
“I really enjoyed the hands-on aspect of my work experience and felt the Modern Apprenticeship would be a great way to expand my knowledge and build on my practical skills at the same time.
“Achieving net zero is vital for our future and it feels good to be helping clients switch to renewable energy sources.”
Alasdair faces competition for the award from Skye McInally.
20-year-old Skye’s passion for renewable energy and supporting net zero was sparked after working in a sustainable shop while still at school. That decision would go on to shape her career, applying for a Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering at 16 years old.
In her current role, Skye is supporting the maintenance of turbines at Loch Sloy Hydro-
Electric Power Scheme at the top of Loch Lomond, putting her at the forefront of the transition
to cleaner energy.
Keen to encourage other young women to seek roles in engineering, Skye, of Balloch, West Dunbartonshire, said: “The Modern Apprenticeship was a better pathway for me than going to university because you are doing the job already, so you get that hands-on experience.
“I love the fact that no two days are the same, and my team is really supportive. There are lots of exciting opportunities in engineering and I think it’s important to encourage more girls to consider a career in it.”
Scotland’s Modern Apprenticeships are made for business, developed with employers, for employers. Available to anyone aged 16 and over who wants to work, learn and earn, apprenticeships play a big role in Scotland’s net zero goals with around a third of modern apprentices and 38 per cent of graduate apprentices in jobs connected to making the transition to clean energy.
Another apprentice playing a key role in this transition is Net Zero of the Year finalist Cameron Clark.
The 24-year-old is already seeing his work with Scottish Water cut carbon emissions. In just one year, Cameron has become a valued member of the firm’s Renewables Capital Delivery team, working on solar and hydropower installations.
Seen as a future leader in the fight against climate change, Cameron played a key role in supporting the installation of 1,100 solar panels near Falkirk while also supporting Scottish Water to achieve a reduction of 974 tonnes of carbon emissions.
Cameron said: “Taking the lead on projects through my Modern Apprenticeship has really helped my confidence, planning and communication.
“Sustainability is the way of the future and I’m proud to be part of the efforts in making sure Scottish Water meets its net zero targets by 2040.”
With Scotland pouring £90bn of investment into green industries, apprentices working in sustainability-focused roles will be at the forefront of a competitive workforce.
At the event, awards will also be presented to Foundation, Modern SCQF Level 5, SCQF
Level 6 and above, and Graduate Apprentice of the Year nominees, with one top candidate
named overall Scotland’s Apprentice of the Year.