Press Release …
Monica Lennon MSP for Central Scotland had the honour of meeting Scott Ahern, the SJIB Apprentice of the Year, at DRB Maintenance’s headquarters in Hamilton during Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2025.
Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2025, took place between 3 and 7 March, celebrates the theme “Made for Business”. This campaign underscores the vital role apprenticeships play in supporting businesses, individuals, and Scotland’s economy.
Monica Lennon MSP praised the collaborative efforts between employers and apprenticeship programs, stating, “Scottish Apprenticeships are designed in partnership with employers, ensuring that they produce skilled individuals who significantly benefit their businesses. It’s inspiring to see the positive impact apprenticeships have on our workforce and economy.”
Jason Boyle, Senior Project Manager said, “Scott has worked long and hard over the course of his apprenticeship and very much deserves his place in the spotlight.
He is dedicated to his profession and is a perfect example of the quick, skilful and effective people we want to see coming into the industry and taking it forward into a new era.”
With around 12,000 apprentice employers and approximately 40,000 apprentices across Scotland, the apprenticeship system is a cornerstone of the nation’s workforce development. From Foundation to Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships, these programs provide essential skills that employers need.
Businesses report that Modern Apprentices help boost productivity and enhance staff retention, with nearly 9 in 10 apprentices remaining with their initial employer. Achievement rates for Modern Apprenticeships are high, and research indicates that apprentices’ wellbeing is higher than the general population. Over 90% of Modern Apprentices rate their training from learning providers and employers highly.
Monica Lennon MSP added, “Employers of all sizes are investing in apprenticeships to discover talent and diversify their workforce. Scott Ahern’s achievement as the SJIB Apprentice of the Year is a testament to the success of these programs.”
Photo Left to Right
John Leathem – Operations Director
Monica Lennon MSP
Scott Ahern – Compex Electrician
Chris Dailly – Head of Construction
Jason Boyle, Senior Electrical Project Manager
