Made for Business: ScotRail's Engineering Apprenticeships

When it comes to launching a career in engineering, hands-on experience can be just as valuable—if not more—than a university degree. ScotRail’s apprenticeship program is giving future engineers the chance to develop real-world skills, build industry connections, and set themselves up for long-term success.

Meet Cara Duffin and Ramsay Reynolds, first-year electrical engineering apprentices at ScotRail, studying at City of Glasgow College. Their journey is proof that apprenticeships offer the perfect mix of technical knowledge, practical experience, and career progression—helping them gain the skills they need to thrive in the engineering industry.

Choosing a Career Path

Neither Cara nor Ramsay had a clear career plan growing up.

Cara always had a passion for Maths, which led her to study it at university. However, after a year, she decided to leave. The shift to online learning during COVID played a role in her decision, but more than that, she wanted a more hands-on career. Reflecting on her experience, she wishes apprenticeships had been promoted more in schools as a viable alternative to university.

Ramsay’s journey was similar. With a love for Physics and Maths, he pursued a Physics degree at university. While he remained passionate about the subject, he realised that research and teaching weren’t the right career paths for him. After graduating, he explored different jobs before deciding he wanted something practical where he could still apply his Physics and Maths knowledge.

Their experiences highlight the importance of awareness around alternative career routes, proving that apprenticeships can be a perfect fit for those looking for hands-on learning and real-world skills.

The Apprenticeship Advantage

For Ramsay, job-hunting highlighted a common problem—many roles lacked long-term career growth. Engineering apprenticeships stood out because they offered clear progression, skill development, and job security. He enjoyed working with his hands and problem-solving, making ScotRail the perfect choice.

The ScotRail Interview & Induction Experience

After applying online, Cara and Ramsay were invited to complete aptitude and logic tests. They were then invited to attend face-to-face interviews at ScotRail HQ where they discussed their knowledge, qualifications, and motivation for applying. 

ScotRail’s induction day provided an exciting introduction to the company. The twelve new apprentices participated in team-building activities and toured the Shields and Corkerhill depots. They explored the engineering behind trains and got an insight of where they would be working as Electrical Engineers.

Ramsay said “The induction really opened my eyes to the scale of engineering work at ScotRail. We got to go under the trains and see how they are lifted for maintenance – it was fascinating!”

Life as a ScotRail Apprentice

The first year of the ScotRail apprenticeship is all about building a solid foundation through college-based learning. Apprentices spend three days a week in workshops, gaining practical experience in hand fitting, pipefitting, electrical circuit testing, and fluid power systems. The remaining two days focus on achieving an NC Level 6 in Electrical Engineering, blending theory with hands-on skills.

Both Cara and Ramsay thrive in this environment. Cara enjoys the Maths-based subjects, while Ramsay is drawn to the problem-solving challenges of single and three-phase systems.

To keep apprentices engaged and supported, ScotRail team members visit the College every Wednesday, ensuring a strong connection between learning and the workplace.

Advice for Future Apprentices

“Go for it. If you want a career in Engineering, it is a great way to go. Degrees are useful, but depending on what you want to do, apprenticeships are better as you are with the company from the beginning of your journey.” – Cara

“If you have heard of apprenticeships but aren't sure exactly what's involved, do some research and look into them properly. Go to websites that have apprenticeships and find out more about them and what the companies are offering. Find out the company's values and what they have to offer for employees.” – Ramsay

Ready to Start Your Journey

If Cara and Ramsay’s experiences have inspired you, explore ScotRail’s engineering apprenticeship opportunities.