Cameron Clark, Modern Apprentice
Project Management

As National Apprenticeship Week draws to a close, we’re shining a spotlight on Cameron Clark, Modern Apprentice who is doing a sterling job getting to grips with our solar PV programme. We chatted with Cameron to find out more…

What made you take up a Modern Apprenticeship?

After leaving school, I was fortunate to work in a variety of roles which gave me valuable learning experiences.

One of these roles involved working closely with Project Managers. I became really interested in the work they were doing – spinning plates, working to deadlines, and keeping projects on track.

When I saw the opportunity to join the Modern Apprentice scheme for Project Management at Scottish Water I jumped at the chance. The timing couldn’t have been better – gaining a qualification whilst working at the same time seemed like a no brainer to me.

Admittedly some doubt crept in initially. I thought apprenticeships were mainly tailored for those leaving school. Thankfully, I couldn’t have been more wrong. The vast array of ages within the apprentice scheme put me at ease and I’m so glad I applied.

What have you been doing in your new role?

For the most part, I’ve been focused on learning the ropes. There is no better way to learn than being hands on, and thankfully, I’ve been given the opportunity to do just that!

At the moment I’m assisting Murdo MacAulay, a Project Manager, with the delivery of solar PV schemes on Scottish Water sites in Greenock and Bonnybridge. I’ve been amazed at all the different things that need to be considered to get solar panels installed – including working with framework suppliers. These types of schemes help Scottish Water meet its ambition of reaching net zero by 2040 and I’m privileged to play my part.

I’m also enjoying working with our Finance team on monthly accruals for our energy centres at Dalmarnock and Stirling. Greig Adams and Sian Sinnott have been a huge help with this!

What have you enjoyed the most?

From day one, I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed absolutely everything. The people in Horizons are great to work with and I feel that I’ve really landed on my feet.

My mentor, Pat Stakim, has been an integral part of my learning journey so far and I’ve amassed so much knowledge from him. I’m looking forward to developing my skills and learning more from Pat and the wider Renewables Capital Delivery team.

I’ve also been fortunate to take part in a DILO. This is where we get the opportunity to spend a ‘Day in the Life of’ with another employee. I got the chance to visit a treatment works in Larkhall and spend some time with Jonny Tyler, a Commissioning and Handover Engineer, to see what’s involved in his role and learn from his experience. It was so interesting and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m soon to go on another DILO with Simon Fuller, Strategic Planner within the Water Resource Planning Team, and really looking forward to it!

What are your ambitions for the future?

I’m determined to pursue a permanent role in project management. Climate change is seriously affecting the world we live in and I’m looking forward to playing a part in reversing the cycle.

Working in renewables in particular has been really inspiring and I’m glad to be a part Scottish Water and Horizons. Long may it continue!

Pat Stakim, Cameron’s mentor, sums up Cameron’s experience so far…

Cameron has been a breath of fresh air to the team! He’s a great addition, seeing things from a different perspective, asking lots of questions, and challenging the norm.

He’s working with several Project Managers from our Renewables Capital Delivery Team, picking up on their skill set, as well as gaining experience from further afield within Horizons and Scottish Water. With his attention to detail and easy-going personality, he’s a great team player.

Overall, Cameron has settled in well, developing nicely and I’m excited to see what the future brings!

Click here for more info on Scottish Water’s Modern Apprenticeship Scheme.