Net zero champion Mandeep does tonnes of work to cut carbon.
Modern Apprentice Mandeep Singh has put his passion for net zero to practical use through work that has drastically reduced CO2 emissions and helped Scots cut their energy bills.
The 20-year-old, currently in his second year of a Modern Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation with FES Group, works on solar farms and district heating projects at construction sites across Scotland.
Mandeep’s contribution to solar farm installation has already helped reduce CO2 emissions by well over 1,000 tonnes a year, while low carbon projects he’s involved in provide energy efficient water supply that reduces costs for consumers.
Mandeep, of Renfrew, uses his extensive electrical knowledge – and meta skills like communication and the ability to plan ahead – to develop and pitch solutions to challenges that arise on site.
Site managers rely on him to complete physically demanding electrical tasks and carry out technical installations requiring real skill.
The former Renfrew High School pupil applied for a Modern Apprenticeship after completing an 18-week electrical course at West College Scotland in Paisley.
Mandeep said: “Helping work towards net zero through my Modern Apprenticeship is really important to me because it will have an impact on all of our futures.
“Doing the Modern Apprenticeship has improved my confidence and communication skills – I feel much more comfortable talking to people at work or in college.
“A Modern Apprenticeship is the best of both worlds. The college learning is really in-depth and then you go out on site and put your learning into practice.”
Modern Apprenticeships are jobs open to anyone aged 16 and over who wants to work, learn and earn.
Modern Apprentices spend most of their time learning in the workplace while being supported by a local college or specialist training provider to gain an industry recognised qualification.
Mandeep’s dedication to honing his skills around net zero technologies has led to him being a finalist in the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.
FES Group Operations Director James Reid said: “Mandeep shows a fantastic drive to learn not only his electrical trade, but also the net zero industry, through his involvement in low carbon heat and electricity generating projects.
“He continually strives to develop his knowledge base in sustainable net zero technologies and systems and his commitment will provide the foundation and inspiration for future generations to meet the decarbonisation challenges required to meet net zero.”
West College Scotland Curriculum Lecturer Building Services (Electrical) Paul Harland said: “Mandeep is a very self-directed student who has excellent communication and practical engineering skills. He is committed to progressing his career in renewable and sustainable projects.”
The winner of the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category will be revealed during Scottish Apprenticeship Week, which takes place from 4 to 8 March.
