Job title: Sector Skills Manager
Location in the UK: Warrington/Edinburgh
For this edition of ‘Day in the Life,’ we delve into a typical day for Martyn Raine, sector skills manager at MCS. Based near Edinburgh, Martyn works remotely for the organisation, which is responsible for certifying small-scale renewable energy installations in the UK.
From early morning workouts to collaborating on key sector-wide initiatives like the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship, Martyn’s role is varied and dynamic, focusing on building skills and supporting industry stakeholders.
Let’s take a closer look at how Martyn’s day unfolds as he helps drive progress in the renewable energy sector.
My alarm goes off at …
I’m an early riser, so I usually get up between 5am and 5.30am.
The first thing I do each day is …
I’ll do some exercise – whether it’s going for a walk or doing a home workout. I listen to audiobooks while I’m doing it, which is usually something non-fiction around personal development, and then it’s time to get the kids ready for nursey and school.
My typical day…
It’s hard to define, because no two days are ever the same – but that’s what makes it so interesting!
My role is to help develop skills within the sector, looking at where we are and how we get to where we need to be. Currently, I’m heavily focused on the deployment of the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship (LCHTA), which MCS helped to develop.
As part of this, I spend my day engaging with various stakeholders: from employers and training providers, to awarding organisations, manufacturers and many more.
I also provide support to the LCHTA’s employer trailblazer group by carrying out some of the ‘leg work’– employers are often extremely busy managing their own businesses, so I try to help them with the apprentice-focused activity where I can.
I usually finish by checking the calendar for the next day – just in case one of those early 8am meetings have sneaked into the diary!
My most memorable work moment …
Working at MCS continues to provide memorable moments time after time. I’ve been astounded at the welcoming and ongoing support that MCS provides, on both a professional and personal level. It’s like having another family.
The worst part of my job …
If I had to pick, then I’d say public speaking is probably my least favourite aspect – but it’s an important part of the job that helps me build connections with some great people.
I relax after work by …
I coach my son’s football team and love to hit the local river to fly fish for Scottish trout. When I’m not doing that or entertaining the kids, I’ll watch Newcastle United if they’re on TV (although I’m not sure you can call that relaxing!)
On my bedside table is …
A book, phone charger, headphones, and some ear plugs for when it’s time to nod off!
The last thing I do each day is …
Put the kids to bed, then aim to read at least 10 pages of a book.
For more information on MCS, visit: https://mcscertified.com/
Image: MCS