Fraser’s career is ready for take- off after award
An Ayrshire teen has been named Scotland’s Apprentice of the Year.
Irvine engineering talent, Fraser Wallace, landed the prize at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards, organised by Skills Development Scotland ( SDS).
Fraser’s career has soared since he started on his Foundation Apprenticeship at Ayrshire College as a Greenwood Academy pupil, gaining work- based learning at aviation experts GE Caledonian as part of his qualification.
The 18 year- old is now able to work, earn and learn by landing a Modern Apprenticeship at the firm this year, after impressing the bosses with his performance and passion for the job.
Fraser also won the title of Foundation Apprentice of the Year at the event, which was sponsored by College Development Network.
He received both awards in front of his employer, college, family and more than 300 guests at a ceremony held at Perth Concert Hall.
Fraser said: “It feels absolutely amazing to win this award and I’m really happy to have been recognised for my ahievement.
“My biggest supporters have been my mum and dad, the college and everyone at my work, including Stephen McNab at GE Caledonian.
“I’d say to anyone thinking about what to do in their career to think about their options and give an apprenticeship a shot, because, like me, you never know what can happen.”
A host of apprentices and employers were applauded at the awards, which were attended by Deputy First Minister, John Swinney, and Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills, Jamie Hepburn.
Fraser added: “I chose engineering because it was always something I was interested in.
“All the people who work here at GE Caledonian are very supportive and, if you ask, they are willing to help you as much as they can.”
Fraser’s skills with hand tools are at a level where he can start at year two of the MA.
Stephen McNab, of GE Caledonian, said: “The impression that Fraser left was an ever- lasting one when he did his work experience with us.
“He had a genuine interest and a genuine passion which came through and it carried him forward to the next stage of his FA.
“He really excelled and was one of the top performers in his year.”
Frank Mitchell, chair of Skills Development Scotland, added: “Fraser is a fantastic example of the opportunities work- based learning provide to work and learn.”