Apprenticeships: a ladder to career success
To celebrate what an apprenticeship can achieve, Feeding Workforce Skills is highlighting the journeys of six former apprentices who have built remarkable paths in the food & drink sector.
The campaign supports Scottish Apprenticeship Week (2–6 March 2026) and aims to show that an apprenticeship is an effective ladder to a successful, long-term career.
The case studies feature a diverse group of professionals at various stages of their careers:
Alan Baxter: managing director, Rowan Glen
Victor West: CEO of Macsween Allan Food Group and non-exec director at Associated Seafoods
Gordon Newlands: brand development manager, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS)
Robbie Hughan: assessor, Craft Skills Scotland
Donald McInnes: food and nutritionist, West Dunbartonshire Council
Lauren Boyer: quality and technical apprentice and marketing assistant, Rowan Glen
The stories of these individuals show that an apprenticeship is not just a route to a first job, but the foundation of a lifelong career. It develops the key transferrable skills needed to progress in life.
There are many exciting reasons to work in food and drink. It’s rewarding, you can make a difference and there truly is a job for everyone. Whatever the uncertainties about the years ahead, people will always want to eat and drink – and to eat and drink well. There will always be careers to get your teeth into.
An apprenticeship is the perfect entry point for those looking to build a secure and successful future in this vital industry.
Want more inspiration about a career in food & drink in Scotland? Watch this short film or visit our career information resource.