Modern Apprentice Cameron Clark is already seeing his work with Scottish Water cut carbon emissions.
In one year Cameron, from Paisley, has become a valued member of the firm’s Renewables Capital Delivery team, working on solar and hydropower installations, and is seen as a future leader in the fight against climate change.
He played a key role in supporting the installation of 1,100 solar panels near Falkirk, managing pre-start meetings, coordinating contractors, leading risk assessments and ensuring materials were delivered on time.
His efforts were critical in ensuring the project was completed on time and within budget – and the scheme now generates 0.64 GWh each year, cutting 84 tonnes of carbon emissions.
Cameron, 24, has also supported Scottish Water to achieve a reduction of 974 tonnes of carbon emissions over the last year, generating 5.8 GWh of renewable energy annually.
He said: “Taking the lead on projects through my Modern Apprenticeship has really helped my confidence, planning and communication.
“Sustainability is the way that the future is going and I’m proud to be part of the efforts to make sure that Scottish Water meet its net zero targets by 2040.”
Modern Apprenticeships and apprentices are made for business, developed with employers to provide skills in demand. They are jobs open to anyone aged 16 and over who wants to work, learn and earn.
Modern Apprentices spend most of their time learning in the workplace while being supported by a learning provider, like a college, to gain an industry recognised qualification.
Cameron has also taken the lead on biodiversity, working with ecologists to ensure that wildlife protection measures – including bat and bird boxes and wildflower planting – are woven into every Scottish Water renewables project and helping the firm meet planning conditions and sustainability goals.
His passion for sustainability influences every decision he makes and has led to him being a finalist in the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.
Cameron said: “Working with ecologists on my apprenticeship gave me a real insight into the wildlife at our sites and how we could work with our team and the local community to protect it.”
Ian Piggott, Scottish Water Horizons Ltd Renewables Delivery Team Senior Project Manager said: “Cameron hit the ground running and his positive, can-do attitude and willingness to take on challenges inspires those around him.
“He is trusted to do jobs properly and is a brilliant member of the team.
“Employing apprentices give Scottish Water a chance to build for the future, match our training to specific roles and create resilience.”
Kirsty McCluskey, QA Ltd Project Management Assessor said: “Cameron is always very professional, conducts himself well and speaks very eloquently about the projects he is working on. He also works hard to develop and improve his meta skills.”
The winner of the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category will be revealed at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards, which takes place 27 February in the run up to Scottish Apprenticeship Week (3 to 7 March).
Find out more about the award finalists and the event by visiting apprenticeships.scot/awards.
Headline Photo: Apprentice Cameron Clark
Photo Credit: Skills Development Scotland