The 20 year old from Renfrew is currently in his second year of a Modern Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation with FES Group. Mandeep has been involved in work on solar farms and district heating projects across the country, cutting CO2 emissions and helping Scots to cut their energy bills.
Mandeep uses his extensive electrical knowledge alongside his communication and planning skills to develop and pitch solutions to challenges that arise on site. Site managers rely on him to complete physically demanding electrical tasks and carry out technical installations that require a high level of skills.
The former Renfrew High School pupil applied for a Modern Apprenticeship after completing an 18-week electrical course at West College Scotland in Paisley.
Mandeep commented: “Helping work towards net zero through my Modern Apprenticeship is really important to me because it will have an impact on all of our futures. Doing the Modern Apprenticeship has improved my confidence and communication skills – I feel much more comfortable talking to people at work or in college.
“A Modern Apprenticeship is the best of both worlds. The college learning is really in-depth and then you go out on site and put your learning into practice.”
The awards celebrate outstanding apprentices, their employers, instructors and mentors from across Scotland. Mandeep was presented with his award by Maggie McGinlay, Chief Executive of the Energy Transition Zone.
The vital role of apprenticeships in net zero
Minister for Energy, Just Transition and Fair Work Gillian Martin, who spoke at the event, said: “It’s been absolutely tremendous to be here, at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards and celebrate the talent that there is out there in Scotland and the value of apprenticeships in harnessing that talent.
“There’s been a central theme of Just Transition, and it’s been particularly exciting for me as the Minister for Energy and Just Transition to see the wealth of talent that there is that is going to take us to net zero.
“Apprenticeships are a vital part of Scotland’s skills system and I congratulate Marc and all of the award finalists and winners. They are an inspiration and I wish them well in their future careers.”
FES Group Operations Director James Reid said: “Mandeep shows a fantastic drive to learn not only his electrical trade, but also the net zero industry, through his involvement in low carbon heat and electricity generating projects.
“He continually strives to develop his knowledge base in sustainable net zero technologies and systems and his commitment will provide the foundation and inspiration for future generations to meet the decarbonisation challenges required to meet net zero.”
West College Scotland Curriculum Lecturer Building Services (Electrical) Paul Harland said: “Mandeep is a very self-directed student who has excellent communication and practical engineering skills. He is committed to progressing his career in renewable and sustainable projects.”