Student Harley engineering way to the top
A Paisley West College Scotland student has been crowned winner of the prestigious Foundation Apprentice (FA) of the Year Award.
Apprentice engineer Harley Higgins scooped the prize after navigating his way through the foundation programme after choosing to pursue a career in engineering when he was in school.
The scheme allowed the 18-year-old to gain invaluable on-the-job experience at Aggreko’s base in Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire, as well as a recognised qualification.
The nature of the programme allowed Harley to try different elements of engineering, such as electrical and mechanical, helping him to decide in which area he would like to specialise in.
Having now successfully progressed to a modern apprenticeship in multiskilled engineering at power supply specialist Aggreko, Harley credits his foundation apprenticeship with giving him a priceless first step – putting him ahead of the other 300 candidates who were considered for the modern apprenticeship programme.
Harley has thanked the college and the programme for allowing him to explore these opportunities.
He said: “A foundation apprenticeship opened my eyes to the opportunities that are available and helped me develop relevant skills and knowledge.
“It gives you the opportunity to experience the workplace and get involved in it, which was invaluable.”
The apprenticeship also taught Harley valuable life lessons, including focusing on his time management, teamwork and communication skills.
Harley’s success means the college has a poster person for the programme as he is deemed the “gold standard” for the next generation of foundation apprentices.
Sharron Rodger, school’s relationship manager, said: “We’re absolutely delighted Harley has been named as foundation apprentice of the year.
“Harley is the perfect example of how a foundation apprenticeship programme can open doors.
“We’re thrilled that the skills Harley developed during his FA provided him with the competitive advantage to land a modern apprenticeship with Aggreko.”