Our Emerging Talent Manager Michael Gillies is responsible for welcoming apprentices to SGN and kickstarting their careers in engineering. Together with Capability Director Susie McKirdy, they recently had the opportunity to visit one of our apprentices, Scott. Here's what Michael had to say:
We were invited to visit Beattock Compressor Station, where Scott is based, by Operations Manager Matthew Starley and Asset Engineer Frank Black. It was a brilliant opportunity to learn more about the fantastic work we do as part of our contract with GNI(UK) - and how our apprentices are contributing to this work.
We were both massively impressed by how critical the facility is. It’s the entry point for the Irish gas network, supplying 80-90% of the gas requirements for Ireland via Scotland. It was fascinating to learn about the work that goes on both here and at Brighouse Bay Compressor Station, where we also have another apprentice, Jack.
So what does an apprentice do?
Scott gave us an in-depth tour of the facility at Beattock. It really brought home to us just how much learning there is in the apprentice role.
Both Scott and Jack started with SGN in September 2022 and are working towards a Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering, with Scott specialising in electrical and Jack in mechanical. The apprenticeship is delivered by our academic partner, Dumfries & Galloway College. The apprentices attend SGN-tailored learning sessions and are supported by qualified experienced teams who are doing an amazing job of developing them both.
I spoke to Scott about his experience. He told me he was first drawn to working with SGN because it was a varied and interesting role that matched his career goals to become an electrical technician. He said he’s really enjoyed learning how the site operates (and trust me there is a huge amount to it!) and all the processes involved.
Both Scott and Jack are looking at the apprenticeship as only the start of their career with SGN. Scott is keen to ultimately one day progress into a senior role, though for now he’s happy learning his trade across electrical and hopefully as he progresses move into instrumentation.
When I later caught up with Jack, he shared that he’s enjoyed getting hands-on experience on-site, learning what the various pieces of equipment and technology are and their function. He has similar aspirations for career progression and is looking forward to the opportunities to come.
How do you make the most of an apprenticeship with SGN?
I asked both Scott and Jack what advice they’d give to others:
Scott said: “My advice would be - keep focused, ask lots of questions to improve your knowledge and give yourself time to learn the role”.
Jack said: “I consider apprenticeships as the best way to gain skills and experience in your chosen field.”
Both apprentices had a clear message - go for it!
Susie and I are passionate about developing the talent of the future at SGN. We loved being able to see just how our apprentices are contributing to the business already.
We thank all our apprentices - they make us proud every day with their hard work, determination and commitment to supporting the future of SGN.
