Alasdair Gillies has turned a work experience opportunity into a full-time role helping Highland businesses go greener.
The 22-year-old from Muir of Ord impressed bosses at Proterra Energy Ltd so much during his placement that he was offered a Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering Maintenance.
Initially joining the Inverness-based renewable energy firm through the Kickstart scheme, Alasdair started by assisting in the workshop and occasionally traveling to sites to help engineers install and maintain systems.
His hard work paid off when, after six months, Proterra invited him to stay on, leading to his apprenticeship offer in 2022.
Now, Alasdair is involved in installing and servicing solar panels, wind turbines, hydro schemes, and battery storage solutions.
Studying two days a week at Inverness College UHI during his first year, he has balanced earning and learning while contributing to his household’s living costs.
Alasdair says being part of the green energy transition is rewarding, as he helps clients switch to renewables.
His achievements include maintaining a large solar array for a distillery on the Isle of Islay, ensuring peak performance and maximising renewable energy use.
On a major project, he played a key role in installing battery and inverter systems, later managing the system during a contracted load bank test.
Alasdair has also helped Proterra cut its own carbon footprint by upgrading lighting, installing an electric vehicle charging station, and adding insulation to reduce heat loss.
Additionally, he refurbished a wind turbine for trade shows, demonstrating renewable energy technology to potential clients.
Working in the rugged northern Highlands, Alasdair has proved his ability to function in remote locations and harsh conditions, earning praise from his managers.
Proterra’s Operations Director, Terry Stebbings, describes him as a dedicated, skilled, and team-focused apprentice who has become an asset to the company.
Apprenticeships are designed to provide industry-relevant skills and are available to anyone aged 16 and over.
They combine workplace learning with structured education, often through a college or training provider, leading to a recognised qualification.
Alasdair’s dedication extends beyond his formal duties, as he has volunteered his time to help colleagues install their own solar storage systems.
His commitment to sustainability has earned him a finalist spot in the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.
Mark Bryson, an Assessor and Trainer in Engineering Technology at Inverness College UHI, commended Alasdair’s high standards and leadership by example.
The winners will be announced at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards on 27 February, just ahead of Scottish Apprenticeship Week.
For more details on the awards and finalists, visit apprenticeships.scot/awards
