A Graduate Apprenticeship was the catalyst for Jonathan Marshall to construct a new career.
The 32-year-old’s achievements have led to him being a finalist in the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category, sponsored by Workforce North, at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.
Ambitious Jonathan moved from a career in agriculture and machinery to a key role at SSEN Transmission, delivering critical substation and cabling works needed that will deliver renewable energy across the UK.
The dad-of-two, from Perth, oversaw the construction of major substations and was promoted from trainee to full Construction Manager in less than two years.
He said: “Doing the Graduate Apprenticeship has given me a deep understanding of safe and sustainable construction along with environmental considerations.
“Having a young family of my own makes supporting net zero really important to me, because it directly affects future generations.”
His involvement in planning future expansions of the greenfield sites shows his growing influence in shaping SSEN Transmission’s approach to clean, green energy solutions.
And his proactive, safety-first approach to construction ensures that all works are carried out responsibly and in line with environmental and operational standards.
He added: “I’m a big advocate of apprenticeships and supporting early careers within SSEN Transmission to help ensure that the workforce is there for the next generation.”
Graduate Apprenticeships are a way to get qualified up to Master’s degree level while in paid employment.
Designed by education and employers, Graduate Apprenticeships are working for Scotland by supporting key sectors that need highly skilled workforces.
SSE plc Early Careers Pipeline Lead Kristin Knight said: “Jonathan has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability throughout his apprenticeship. His collaborative approach and readiness to share knowledge helps to create an encouraging learning environment for others.
“Apprenticeships were introduced to build a resilient, future-focused workforce capable of delivering the critical infrastructure needed for a net-zero energy system and apprentices bring fresh thinking, curiosity and long-term commitment.
“They strengthen our talent pipeline and ensure we have the skilled people needed to safely connect, operate and expand the transmission network for decades to come.”
The Scottish Apprenticeship Awards in association with SP Energy Networks, celebrates apprentices, employers and learning providers from across the country and a wide range of sectors.
Award categories recognise the achievements of Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprentices, as well as the organisations who champion and support apprenticeships.
The awards, organised by Skills Development Scotland, will be held at a ceremony taking place in Glasgow on 26 February, when category winners will be announced before the overall winner is named Scotland’s Apprentice of the Year.
Minister for Higher and Further Education, Ben Macpherson said: “Scottish Apprenticeships are excellent opportunities for young people, offering sustainable and rewarding employment.
“Congratulations to all Scottish Apprenticeship Awards finalists – career journeys that are fantastic examples of the positive impact apprenticeships have on people, business and society.”
The Scottish Apprenticeship Awards will help to launch Scottish Apprenticeship Week from 2 to 6 March. For more information about the awards and apprenticeships, visit apprenticeships.scot.
