More than 650 pupils from Lochaber and surrounding areas explored career opportunities in the Scottish salmon sector during an event hosted at Lochaber High School on October 2.
Organised by Salmon Scotland, Mowi Scotland, and Developing the Young Workforce West Highland, the event aimed to attract the next generation of talent to an industry that directly supports 1,000 jobs in the north-west Highlands and generates £224 million annually for the local economy.
The careers day featured interactive displays and activities from major industry players, including Bakkafrost Scotland, Scottish Sea Farms, and Gael Force.
Pupils had the opportunity to meet professionals, learn about aquaculture, and explore a variety of roles such as technicians, farm assistants, skippers, processors, and positions in finance and IT. A tanker from Ferguson Transport showcased the logistics of salmon farming, while a live video feed allowed pupils to observe remote fish feeding operations.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, emphasised the sector’s importance to the region, stating, “The farm-raised Scottish salmon sector is the engine of the Highlands and islands economy, offering well-paid, year-round jobs to complement other, more seasonal, sectors. We hope we have given the pupils food for thought about a career in salmon farming and look forward to welcoming some of these young people into the industry.”
The event also raised £900 for Lochaber High School through Mowi Scotland’s popular salmon wagon, which served complimentary meals to the pupils.
Scott Steele, headteacher at Lochaber High School, noted the benefits for students: “The aquaculture event provided valuable insights into a growing sector with excellent career prospects. The event helped to highlight the industry’s economic role in the Highlands and demonstrated the diverse range of opportunities available to our pupils.”
Sarah Ralston, HR manager at Mowi Scotland, described the day as a success: “The purpose of the event was to immerse pupils in interactive activities that showcased the variety of careers available, linking back to the school’s skills framework and showing how these skills are applied in the workplace.”
Other organisations supporting the event included:
- Scottish Sea Farms
- Bakkafrost Scotland
- Gael Force
- AKVA
- Ferguson Transport
- Biomar
- Solvtrans
- UHI
- Lantra
- Young Aquaculture Society
- Fish for Health
- Scottish Seaweed Industry Association
- SAMS
