28 February 2025
Fife College’s commitment to developing Scotland’s future workforce was recognised at this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Awards, where two of its apprentices were named as finalists.
Blair Munro, an Engineering apprentice with Diageo, was shortlisted for the Modern Apprentice of the Year (SCQF Level 6+) award, while Skye McInally, an Engineering apprentice at SSE plc, was nominated for the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category.
Blair has made a significant impact in his role at Diageo, leading a steam trap optimisation project that has saved the company £27,000 annually. His application of skills in a real-world setting has been commended by both his employer and his lecturers at Fife College.
Rhoda Gabellone, Capability Manager at Diageo, praised Blair’s contributions:
“Blair is a proactive individual who consistently asks insightful questions, builds strong working relationships, and is trusted to deliver exceptional results. His blend of technical skill, leadership, and dedication makes him an ideal candidate for this award and has led to him becoming a role model for newer apprentices.”
Meanwhile, Skye has been playing a crucial role in Scotland’s transition to renewable energy through her work at SSE plc. Her apprenticeship has given her hands-on experience in sustainable engineering projects that contribute directly to net-zero targets, ensuring hydroelectric power schemes remain efficient and reliable.
Marta Rys-Paslawska, SSE Renewables Hydro Pipelines Programme Manager, highlighted Skye’s impact:
“Skye has done brilliantly – she achieved very high scores on all her assessments at college and quickly became a very valued member of her team at SSE. Apprenticeships are an amazing opportunity for us to attract and develop young talent, to teach them our beliefs, values and ways of working as well as having the benefits of the fresh perspectives they bring to our business.”
Fife College was the only training provider in Scotland to have multiple finalists in this year’s awards, reflecting the exceptional standard of its apprenticeship programmes and the strong partnerships it has with industry leaders.
Iain Hawker, Assistant Principal: Enterprise & Partnerships at Fife College, said:
“We are thrilled to see Skye and Blair recognised at this level. Their nominations for the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards are a testament to their hard work, the support of their employers, and the quality of apprenticeship learning opportunities we provide here at Fife College.
“With one of the most substantial Modern Apprenticeship programmes in Scotland, supported by over 180 employer partnerships, we are proud to deliver training that equips apprentices with the in-demand skills needed to excel in their careers and support the growth of our regional economy.”
Although neither apprentice secured the top prize, their nominations alone are a testament to their hard work, talent, and the quality of training they have received. The College remains immensely proud of their achievements and the impact they are already making in their respective industries.
As apprenticeships continue to shape Scotland’s future workforce, Fife College remains committed to delivering industry-led training that ensures apprentices develop the skills and experience they need to succeed in high-demand sectors.