Is an apprenticeship for me?

To celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship Week #ScotAppWeek23 we invite you to meet Lorraine Paterson, one of the newest recruits to our pioneering apprentice scheme. Find out how Lorraine and our other apprentices are #UnlockingPotential at The Glenmorangie Company.

?Committed to creating a more diverse workforce, we launched our apprenticeship programme in 2019 – the UK’s first to follow the Spirits Operations Level 6 qualification. Since then, we have welcomed 27 apprentices, ranging from school leavers and career changers, with a diverse set of experiences and perspectives. As they train, each apprentice gains key technical skills as well as developing in areas such as industry understanding, problem solving and communication. So far, 85% have secured full-time roles with us, playing a vital role in our ongoing success. Read on to discover Lorraine’s story...

?What were you doing before joining the apprenticeship programme?

I applied for the apprenticeship aged 43, with a son who was serving in the Army. My husband is in the RAF and I had always followed his career rather than my own. After working part-time at a small gin distillery and on a short-term data entry project, I felt like the time was right to start working towards my own goals.

?What attracted you to apply for the programme?

I have a personal interest in the Glenmorangie brand as I am originally from near Tain, where the Distillery is based. I love the brand and knew this would be fantastic opportunity for me as I would gain so many transferrable skills and get to know the industry.

How does it feel to be an apprentice?

I already feel part of the team. At first I worried about being older than the rest of the apprentices, but it has actually strengthened us as a team. Our different age ranges, backgrounds and experiences make for a more diverse, interesting and supportive team.

What have you most enjoyed so far?

I am enjoying learning about the Glenmorangie and Ardbeg brands and working as a Filler Associate in the bottling hall. I am also fortunate to have had the support of a training buddy, Davie Hogg, who has made the journey of learning how to operate the machinery that much smoother. There have also been some fantastic experiences such as trips to the Distillery in Tain and a beach clean with the Marine Conservation Society.

What new opportunities have you been given?

Thanks to the programme, I’m gaining qualifications alongside employment – working towards my?SVQ Spirits Operations which includes an IBD General Certificate in Packaging.?

Would you recommend the programme?

Yes. It is a wonderful opportunity for anyone interested in the spirits industry but lacking experience and qualifications. It gives new recruits industry insight, opportunities to learn develop and grow and start a career with a great company in a fantastic sector.

While we are not currently recruiting for our apprenticeship programme if you have any questions about it, future intakes, or other careers at the Company please email [email protected] .??