The new modern apprentices, two of whom are women, will become part of the 80+ strong team of apprentices that the Cruden Group train every year. As one of Scotland’s largest independent construction firms, the company has been delivering a modern and graduate apprentice programme for almost 50 years and continues to invest heavily in maximising local training and employment opportunities across Scotland.

More than 60 young people applied for the roles and, following a series of tests and interviews, thirteen eager new recruits, ranging in age from 16 to 20 years old have been selected to embark on a four-year modern apprenticeship programme as joiners, painters, plumbers and bricklayers, where they will learn their chosen trade through practical on the job training, while also working towards a formal qualification.

Kevin Reid, chief executive of the Cruden Group, said: “We offer one of the most sought-after apprenticeship programmes in the industry and we are pleased to provide opportunities for young people right across the country. Through our Cruden Academy, we place a lot of emphasis on retaining and investing in our staff and we are proud to have a regular intake to our apprenticeship programme, employing the majority of our apprentices once they qualify.

“The construction industry is in the grip of a well-documented skills shortage and collectively we must secure a talented workforce that has the right motivation to future-proof this thriving industry.  Our ‘grow your own’ approach to training and development allows us to contribute directly this issue, ensuring Scotland’s construction industry retains a highly-skilled workforce.”

Two of this year’s new recruits, apprentice painter Caitlin MacGregor and apprentice joiner Caitlin Sheekey, both aged 20, were pleased to be flying the flag for women in construction.

Caitlin MacGregor said: “I love painting so I’m thrilled to be starting my apprenticeship Cruden and I’m looking forward to getting on site and being able to learn throughout my career.”

Caitlin Sheekey added: “My family and friends are surprised but very proud that I’ve chosen to follow a career path into construction. I’m delighted to start working towards gaining such a valuable trade.”

Cruden also runs a range of additional training initiatives through its ‘pathways to employment’ programme and hold ‘Investors in People – Silver’ and ‘Investors in Young People – Gold’ accreditations.