As we fast approach Scottish Apprenticeship week later in March, at Ri Cruden, we are already thinking about all things apprentices! Today, we hear from one of our directors, Callum Cruden, who has taken some time to reflect on his journey from apprentice to leading our award-winning apprenticeship programme. From hands-on learning to building confidence, Callum’s story offers a fantastic reminder of how apprenticeships can shape careers and lives.

There are often occasions where I am reminded of my time as an apprentice, and the difference that often challenging, yet invaluable training made within my career, and life in general. My professional journey is still rooted in the hands-on learning and foundational skills I gained during my apprenticeship, so, as Scottish Apprenticeship Week comes around for another year, it offers such a perfect opportunity to take some time to put down some of my thoughts, and reflect on what is often an overlooked, but incredibly crucial aspect of the nation’s workforce. They are a vital step in nurturing and retaining local talent, and I couldn’t be a stronger advocate for them as a viable, career pathway.

Many things have changed since my days as a young trainee with Scottish Water, but the value of apprenticeships has only gathered momentum in recent years. I could speak all day about the benefits of apprenticeships, from earning while you learn to gaining a recognised qualification – but for me, the true value lies in the personal development and growth in confidence I have been fortunate enough to experience both as an apprentice myself and now proudly witness as an employer.

Transferring the passion and positive experience from my own apprenticeship to now taking a leading role in the running of our award-winning apprenticeship program has given me an incredible perspective to the world of work.  Being thrown into real projects from the very start of my apprenticeship exposed me to challenges and experiences I could never have imagined. That early, hands-on learning shaped my career, and it’s exactly the kind of opportunity I want to pass on to the next generation entering our industry.

Our approach is simple: from day one, our apprentices are immersed in hands-on learning, gaining experience alongside some of the best engineers in the industry who teach them the skills they need to succeed.   With over a quarter of our workforce made up of current or former apprentices, many of whom continue to build their careers with us after qualifying, our method speaks for itself. This depth of experience and hands-on learning we offer helps us to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals across our industry.

As we enter an exciting period of growth across the Highland region, it’s also a crucial time to tackle the ongoing skills shortage that many construction and energy companies across the country are facing. Apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways to build a skilled and efficient workforce.

Our commitment to this is reflected through our active involvement in initiatives such as Workforce North, and through regular engagement with schools and careers events, something I personally find incredibly important. These efforts create valuable opportunities for collaboration, helping us to build and promote long-term, sustainable careers for people and communities across the region.

Pursuing an apprenticeship undoubtedly set me up for life, and I hope my own journey shows that an apprenticeship can be a pathway to leadership and long-term success within the industry.

As a business, we’re deeply committed to developing talent and fostering a culture of continuous improvement where opportunities are open to everyone. We’ll continue to invest in people and skills, helping to create rewarding careers for talented individuals right here in the Highlands.

Apprentices Apprenticeship