AB: How has Scottish Water tailored its early careers programme to attract top talent? 

SW: As Scotland’s sole water utility company, we’ve embraced our unique responsibility while addressing the diverse geographical landscape of our country. To reach and inspire young talent, we’ve adopted a dynamic approach, integrating creative social media campaigns, partnerships with schools and universities, and cutting-edge technology like VR tours. Our Careers Map allows us to vividly illustrate the roles and skills available within Scottish Water, helping young people understand the exciting opportunities we offer. 

AB: What initiatives have you implemented to support young professionals during their career journey? 

SW: Supporting young professionals is central to our ethos. We’ve established an in-house Skills Academy to train and assess modern apprentices, ensuring that expertise is transferred across generations. Graduates benefit from tailored two- or three-year programmes that include rotational placements across the business, alongside targeted training to enhance transferable skills and self-awareness. Both apprentices and graduates undertake meaningful business projects that develop their practical knowledge, networks, and confidence. To foster a welcoming environment, we also run a mentoring programme pairing new recruits with experienced employees, many of whom are former apprentices or graduates themselves. 

AB: Can you share some of the most impactful learning and development opportunities provided? 

SW: Our business projects stand out as impactful learning experiences. For instance, apprentices collaborate on projects with Powering Futures, while graduates tackle challenges set by business managers. These initiatives are not hypothetical exercises—they address genuine business needs, empowering young professionals to take ownership of critical tasks. The collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership opportunities embedded in these projects create invaluable development experiences that prepare participants for the demands of the modern workplace. 

AB: What challenges did you face in building a successful early careers programme, and how were they overcome? 

SW: Our geography posed a unique challenge. Scotland’s vast and often remote Highland regions and islands present logistical hurdles, particularly during certain times of the year. By establishing our internal Skills Academy, we’ve created the flexibility needed to ensure that apprentices in even the most remote areas receive high-quality training and assessment. This approach ensures consistency across the business, regardless of location. 

AB: How do you see the future of early careers programmes evolving at Scottish Water? 

SW: The pace of change in technology and skills demands means adaptability will be crucial. We aim to design programmes that not only keep pace with industry trends but also anticipate future needs. By focusing on transferable skills, we’ll prepare young professionals for roles that may not yet exist, equipping them with the tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. 

AB: Finally, why did you choose to enter the TIARAs, and what does your win mean to you and your business? 

SW: Entering the TIARAs was a chance to highlight the collective effort behind our early careers programme. From school engagement to programme completion, it’s a business-wide initiative that relies on collaboration and dedication from employees at all levels. Winning this award recognises the extraordinary effort that goes into developing our future workforce and serves as a point of pride for our entire organisation. The award is now displayed prominently at our head office as a reminder of what we’ve achieved together.