Apprentice stories IonaModern Apprentice
Engineering
Iona started engineering in her grandad’s garage – now she’s winning national awards.
Iona's
journey
From a young age, Iona’s heart was set on a career in engineering. She loved helping her grandad as he completed projects at his workbench. Perhaps Iona’s grandad spotted her potential, as he would allow her to hammer nails and cut wood.
When Iona was choosing school subjects, she jumped at the chance to do an Engineering Foundation Apprenticeship. This gave her vital work experience and was the first step of her apprenticeship journey.
Leven-based Iona said, ‘I’ve always been interested in engineering, so this seemed like the right career path to go down.’
Iona's
apprenticeship
After her Foundation Apprenticeship, Iona was even more motivated to become an engineer. She started an Engineering Modern Apprenticeship with Diageo once she left school.
The former Kirkland High pupil plays a key role in the company’s engineering team. Iona fixes breakdowns and does important maintenance work.
At times, Iona performed well above her paygrade! She stepped up to cover an experienced engineer, which meant taking on tougher tasks. Iona’s commitment to her craft paid off at the 2024 Scottish Apprenticeship Awards. She won the Modern Apprentice of the Year SCQF Level 6+ category.
Why did you choose a Modern Apprenticeship?
How has your Modern Apprenticeship helped you develop your career?
How do you feel Iona has developed at Diageo?
My Modern Apprenticeship confirmed that I want to work in engineering. I’d like to stay in this industry for the rest of my life.
Iona
Modern Apprentice, Engineering
The future
Iona’s future career is structurally sound! The young engineer is now a Graduate Apprentice at Diageo. This means she’s working towards a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
The Graduate Apprenticeship has opened many doors for Iona. She’s now part of Diageo’s global community of engineers. Who knows where her skill set could take her in the future!
Fife-based Iona has achieved a lot. But she still identifies with her past self – the young girl who discovered a love for engineering at her grandad's workbench. Iona said, 'I hope I inspire other young women to think about STEM careers because I love what I do.'
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