UHI Inverness has seen a remarkable rise in apprenticeship enrolments, cementing its status as the largest apprenticeship provider within the UHI partnership and across the region.
With over 750 Modern Apprentices and around 200 Graduate Apprentices currently in training, the institution is responding directly to the growing demand for skilled workers.
The number of Modern Apprenticeships has surged from 206 in 2014/15, while Graduate Apprenticeships have risen from just 13 in 2019/20.
In addition, UHI Inverness is training more than 300 plumbing and electrical apprentices on behalf of other training providers.
Principal Professor Chris O’Neil views the economic developments in the area, including the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, as a new industrial revolution.
His focus is on enhancing the curriculum and campus estate to position UHI Inverness as a leader in workforce skills development.
Supporting this vision is Victoria Erasmus, the newly appointed Chair of the Board of Management, who is keen to foster stronger collaboration between education and business.
Her appointment coincides with a period of change, as the University of the Highlands and Islands undergoes a process to shape its long-term future.
Both leaders are committed to ensuring that UHI Inverness continues to be recognised for its strengths and its essential role in economic growth.
Victoria Erasmus emphasises the importance of industry collaboration to create adaptable learning pathways that meet the evolving needs of employers and workers alike.
She sees UHI Inverness as a key driver in preparing the workforce for emerging industries, particularly in green energy and infrastructure.
She believes that strong relationships between UHI Inverness, local businesses, and the wider community will help build a workforce that is skilled, compassionate, and prepared for the future.
A recent report by Scottish Engineering highlights the urgent need for increased apprenticeship funding to bridge the skills gap and seize the vast opportunities of the green revolution.
UHI Inverness is working with partners such as Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Highland Council, and the green freeport to enhance skills training aligned with the renewables sector.
The institution has secured premises for a new Sustainable Construction Centre, supported by funding from SSEN Transmission’s Regional Community Benefit Fund.
Plans are also in motion for an engineering training centre and a Renewable Energy Training Hub, which launched in November to provide cutting-edge training in heat pump technology.
Ongoing campus renovations will create a technology centre aimed at expanding engineering courses and apprenticeships.
Further collaborations are being developed to increase training in Civil Engineering, Construction, and the Built Environment.
In partnership with Highland Council and industry stakeholders, UHI Inverness is shaping a sustainable construction and retrofit training strategy to support the Highland Housing Challenge.
The college has also launched a short civil engineering programme in collaboration with CECA Scotland Academy to address sector shortages.
Despite these successes, financial challenges remain a significant concern, with government funding restrictions threatening the growth of further education and apprenticeship places.
Professor O’Neil warns that a lack of investment in training and apprenticeships could result in long-term economic costs for Scotland.
He believes that institutional reforms must focus on eliminating inefficiencies and ensuring that resources are effectively directed towards students and community needs.
UHI Inverness established its Business Solutions team in 2016 to support businesses in identifying and addressing skills gaps through apprenticeship programmes.
Since 2019/20, the college has introduced Graduate Apprenticeships in Civil Engineering, Early Learning and Childcare, Business Management, and Construction.
With a target of 300 Graduate Apprenticeships next academic year, new programmes in Engineering and Accounting are set to launch.
Professor O’Neil highlights the college’s efforts in providing a talent pipeline for major regional projects such as the freeport and the Port of Ardersier.
He believes that by fostering industry partnerships, UHI Inverness creates a dynamic learning environment that benefits both students and employers.
Audrey MacIver of Highlands and Islands Enterprise underscores the importance of collaboration in building a skilled workforce to support economic growth.
She recognises that the rise in apprenticeship enrolments at UHI Inverness demonstrates the effectiveness of work-based learning in meeting industry demands.
Alli Vass, Powerhouse Manager of Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, acknowledges the crucial role of UHI Inverness in ensuring the Highlands are prepared for the offshore renewable industry.
She praises the institution’s commitment to providing industry-focused learning solutions and apprenticeship opportunities across diverse sectors.
Highland Council Convener, Councillor Bill Lobban, commends the programme for equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in their careers.
He believes that as investment interest grows, a skilled young workforce will be essential to securing long-term economic benefits for the region.
Employers have been actively engaging with UHI Inverness to showcase opportunities and recruit apprentices directly from the student population.
RSE, a major employer in the area, values its collaboration with UHI Inverness in developing apprenticeships that lead to careers in the water industry.
Mike Campbell of RSE highlights the importance of engaging with students early to offer career advice and establish strong professional relationships.
Steven McIntosh of LifeScan Inc praises the Engineering Apprentice programme for providing hands-on training and delivering top-tier talent for the industry.
Since 2007, LifeScan has worked closely with UHI Inverness to evolve the learning experience and ensure students receive the support they need.
Andrew Macdonald of Boiler and Valve Engineering sees apprenticeships as a crucial stepping stone towards degree-level qualifications and long-term career progression.
He believes that providing a structured pathway from apprenticeship to degree education benefits both individuals and industry.
As UHI Inverness continues its expansion, it remains a key player in shaping the future workforce and driving economic growth across the Highlands.
