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The Minister for Schools and Skills has crowned a trout farmer the inaugural winner of the ‘Aquaculture Learner of the Year’ at a ceremony last night (Thursday 28th February). Maureen Watt MSP presented the new award to twenty-three year old site manager Jamie MacKinnon. Organised by Lantra, and supported by Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation (SSPO), the new award category was created to recognise outstanding learners and to promote aquaculture as an attractive career choice. A new recruit to the sector only two years ago, Jamie is now equipping himself with the experience and skills that will help provide a bright future in the industry and assist him with his ambition to work overseas. “I want to make the best possible career for myself, so I aim to get as much experience and training as possible,” said MacKinnon, an employee of Scot Trout Limited. “In the future I would like to progress up through area management and possibly work abroad, maybe in Chile or Norway. “I would recommend fish farming to others because it is such an interesting career – you never have two days that are exactly the same. There is always a different challenge facing you,” he added. Jamie MacKinnon is studying for a Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) Level 2 in aquaculture with the Seafield Centre at Inverness College. Murray Stark of the Seafield Centre said: “Jamie has a great attitude towards training. He is an extremely diligent student, always keen for information. His enthusiasm and commitment have led to him securing the site manager role at a very early age.” Sid Patten, Chief Executive of Scottish Salmon Producers' Organisation, said: “Jamie has clearly demonstrated an appetite for learning and development in this young, vibrant industry. As the demands and responsibilities in aquaculture require high levels of competence and specialist knowledge, we must continue to promote training and skills development to others within the business and new recruits. It is crucial to the future sustainability of the sector.” Maureen Watt MSP said: “The Scottish Government is committed to developing lifelong skills and making Scotland’s skills base truly world class. We support the work of Lantra, who are playing an important role in providing training and improving skills for the land-based sector. I am very encouraged by the high calibre of nominees received for these awards. I congratulate all of the winners.” William Fergusson, Lantra’s National Director for Scotland, said: “It is vital for the future of aquaculture that we continue to attract a high calibre of candidates. To do this, we must raise awareness of the many challenging and diverse career and training opportunities across Scotland. There are skilled jobs with real career progression on offer to new entrants of all ages.” The fish farmer was amongst 11 top learners from across Scotland to receive awards at the fifth annual Land-based Learner of the Year Awards last night. Ends For further information on the awards please contact Victoria White, Communications Co-ordinator Tel: 01738 553311 or e-mail victoria.white@lantra.co.uk more news articles...
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Argyll & Bute
