Quartzelec marked Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026 by welcoming Davy Russell MSP to its Hamilton facilities for a wide‑ranging discussion on skills development, training pathways and Scotland’s future workforce.

Held in collaboration with the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), representatives from the local Quartzelec leadership team, training teams and two apprentices at different stages of their journey welcomed the opportunity to host a session on how high‑quality apprenticeship programmes create long‑term career opportunities, strengthen Scotland’s skilled trades pipeline, and support industry growth.

Chris Rose, Quartzelec Business Manager, Hamilton, commented: “Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of our business. We continue to invest heavily in training because we recognise just how vital these programmes are, not only for our own industry, but for the wider Scottish and UK economies. Hosting this visit gave us the opportunity to demonstrate the real impact apprenticeships have in building skills, boosting employability, and supporting the next generation of electrical engineers.”

Quartzelec works closely with SECTT to ensure strong collaboration between employers, colleges and trainees throughout the qualification process, helping apprentices’ transition smoothly into fully qualified roles.

During the visit, Mr Russell had the opportunity to meet two Quartzelec trainees representing different stages of the apprenticeship journey - Chris, currently in the third stage of the SJIB’s adult training programme, who spoke about balancing college work with practical, on‑the‑job learning and the importance of setting aside focused study time; and Callum, who recently completed his training and is now a fully qualified electrician, highlighting the solid career foundations and progression opportunities available within Quartzelec.

Davy Russell MSP, representing Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, said: “I am grateful for the time taken by the teams at SECTT and Quartzelec during Scottish Apprenticeship Week to show me around and spend time discussing the work they do. I’ve been particularly impressed by Chris and Callum and the work they and the company do.” He further added, “with one in six young people aged 20–24 not in work, education or training, we need to look to the past when apprentices were a viable, flexible and desirable option. The next generation of apprenticeships must have the support, funding and recognition to ensure they can allow our young people and industries to succeed.” 

Kevin McKeown, Contracts Manager at Quartzelec, concluded: “Apprenticeships are a vital investment in people, in our business and in the future of the industry. We are proud to support trainees as they develop rewarding careers and gain skills that are essential to Scotland’s future workforce.”

Quartzelec remains committed to nurturing talent, investing in skills, and providing meaningful career pathways that support both individuals and Scotland’s growing engineering and electrotechnical sectors.

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