Pupils from Dingwall Academy and Alness Academy got a powerful taste of their potential futures during two hands-on energy career events held at Ross County Football Club.
The Discovery Days were run by SSEN Transmission, in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce Inverness & Central Highland, and the Engineering Development Trust.
Around 45 pupils from S4 to S6 took part in a packed day of learning, challenges and inspiration designed to open their eyes to the possibilities of a career in the energy sector.
The sessions formed part of the Engineering Development Trust’s Industrial Cadets initiative, specifically the Silver-level Insight into Apprenticeships programme.
From career talks to STEM challenges, the Discovery Days gave the pupils a real-world look into electricity networks and how they can help shape the future of the industry.
A key highlight was the chance to speak directly with current SSEN Transmission apprentices and learn how they took their first steps into the world of work.
SSEN Transmission, headquartered in Perth, plays a crucial role in keeping the lights on across the north of Scotland through its high-voltage electricity transmission network.
The company is investing £20 billion through its Pathway to 2030 programme, a huge infrastructure project that will boost clean energy supply and create thousands of jobs across the region.
Early Careers Manager at SSEN Transmission, Nicky Gadsden, said the need to engage the next generation of energy workers has never been greater.
She said the Highlands are set to play a vital role in the future of energy and it is essential to show young people the range of opportunities available on their doorstep.
She added the feedback from the Discovery Days had been overwhelmingly positive, especially the conversations pupils had with apprentices who were once in their shoes.
Sandy Mackenzie, DYW School Co-ordinator at Dingwall Academy, praised the event for its real-world relevance and its clear structure.
He said SSEN Transmission gave pupils an honest and detailed look at how a major employer operates, from team dynamics to technical challenges.
He added the level of involvement from SSEN staff made a major impact and brought the learning to life.
The Discovery Days not only sparked ambition but also gave young people the confidence to explore careers they might never have considered before.
With the apprenticeship and trainee programme set to reopen next year, pupils now have a clear path to explore if they choose to follow the current.
SSEN Transmission’s website is the best place to find more about early career opportunities and how to get involved.
These events show that the Highlands are not just part of the energy future — they are leading it.
