Aquaculture trainees shortlisted for ALBAS awards

Two aquaculture trainees, from Bakkafrost and Scottish Sea Farms, have been shortlisted for Lantra Scotland’s Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Abilities (the ALBAS).

The awards, which occur on Thursday 9 March in Dunblane, recognise coaching and training excellence in land- and marine-based farming.

Craig Johnstone, from Tarbert in Argyll & Bute, has been doing a Technical Apprenticeship in Aquaculture by way of UHI Shetland, whereas working as a Web site Supervisor for Bakkafrost Scotland.

He stated: “Coming from Tarbert and having household concerned in aquaculture, it was pure for me to comply with of their footsteps. I really like the neighborhood tradition of the business and there’s a lot to study. My apprenticeship has taught me to achieve for my objectives and helped me overcome all of the challenges which have come my manner.”

Lori Smith, from Bixter in Shetland has been doing a Fashionable Apprenticeship in Aquaculture by way of UHI Shetland, whereas working as a Fish Technician for Scottish Sea Farms.

She stated: “I used to be born and introduced up within the Shetland Islands, the place aquaculture is one in all our core industries, so naturally I developed an curiosity within the sector. I really like how diverse my position is and the way every day is completely different. Day-after-day you’re aiming to offer the very best take care of the fish, which may be very rewarding.”

Lantra Scotland is a charity which works to extend the quantity and variety of staff within the land-based, aquaculture and environmental conservation sector, and drive their abilities improvement.

Business classes at this yr’s ALBAS embody agriculture, aquaculture, equine, sport and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering and bushes and timber.

In addition to prizes for Total Winner, Runner-up and Fashionable Apprentice of the 12 months, there are additionally prizes for Greater Training, Faculty Pupil and Secondary Faculties, CARAS (Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies), a Mentor award for inspirational tutor, the Tam Tod Trophy and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.

Finalists for ALBAS 2023 have been chosen by an impartial judging panel made up of influential figures from throughout the land-based and aquaculture sector, chaired by Keith Paterson of Forestry and Land Scotland.