Iona has apprenticeship spirit

Diageo Modern Apprentice Iona McGhie has described how her apprenticeship has opened the door to her dream career. 

Iona’s journey is being highlighted alongside other apprentices as part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week which takes place this week (7 to 11 March).

This year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week is shining a light on the vital role apprenticeships play in supporting people, employers, and the economy. 

Iona, from Leven, started her apprenticeship journey at school where she completed a Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering at Levenmouth Academy. She then went on to Fife College to study HNC in Mechanical Engineering, starting her Modern Apprenticeship with Diageo at the same time.

Now in her third year of her apprenticeship, Iona has completed her HNC and moved on to do her HND in Mechanical Engineering at the College, all while learning on the job at Diageo’s packaging plant in Leven.

Combining working and learning, apprenticeships allow young people to gain skills and experiences while also earning. For employers, apprenticeships help develop enthusiastic young talent with the exact skills and experience required.

Iona said:

“I think apprenticeships are a brilliant opportunity, I’ve really loved going from the Foundation Apprenticeship into the Modern Apprenticeship.

“At work I really like to get hands on and involved in jobs, stripping things down and rebuilding them.

“Once I finish my apprenticeship, I’d like keep getting hands on skills and one day become an Engineering Manager.”

Diageo have been working with the College over several years to upskill their workforce, meet skills needs and increase productivity through various apprenticeship programmes.                      

A global leader in beverage alcohol, Diageo have apprentices working across their packaging site in Leven, including modern apprentices in operator positions and electrical and mechanical engineering positions.    

Rhoda Gabellone, Capability Manager at Diageo’s packaging plant in Leven, said:

“Apprenticeships are a valuable talent pipeline here at Diageo, helping us attract diverse candidates who are committed to developing the skills we need for now and the future.

“We are delighted to be delivering such a variety of apprenticeship roles at our Leven packaging site and look forward to welcoming a diverse range of talent to the business following this year’s recruitment.”