Harris Ahmed – a TechnipFMC Modern Apprentice – scooped the top prize at Forth Valley College’s first ever MA Graduation held at Alloa Town Hall.
Mechanical Manufacturing MA Harris (23), from Dunfermline won the MA of the Year award at the ceremony held on Monday 2 March, which forms part of the college’s celebration of Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2020 (2-6 March).
More than 300 MAs were eligible to graduate this year from Forth Valley College and 60 of them chose to collect their scrolls on the night.
Keith Brown MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane and Depute Leader of the SNP, was Guest of Honour and keynote speaker at the event. He was joined by Katie Hutton - Director of National Training Programmes at Skills Development Scotland who gave the vote of thanks and Jennifer Tempany Director of Strategic Partnerships and Business Development at Forth Valley College, who called out the names of the graduands.
A lone piper from Alloa Bowmar Pipe Band was on hand to pipe in the guests of honour at the event.
Harris, said: “Obviously I am overwhelmed at winning the award as I never expected it, but I am happy to receive it.
“I thought the MA was brilliant. I went to university for a year and dropped out and started my apprenticeship through Forth Valley College working for TechnipFMC and it was the best decision I ever made. The support I have received from TechnipFMC and the college has been superb.
“I would recommend it to anyone as it is very rewarding, you earn while you are learning and if you work hard you will reap the rewards. I would like to thank everyone at TechnipFMC, especially those in the mechanical shop, Dougie and John who mentor the apprentices and my family as well for all their support.”
Dougie Gair, Learning Architect and John Brady, Manufacturing Compliance Lead, both from TechnipFMC mentored and supported Harris during his four years and were delighted at his achievement.
Dougie, said: “We are delighted that Harris has won this award. He progressed well through the modern apprenticeship scheme, developed beyond the basic role of a modern apprentice by taking on extra responsibility and is a true ambassador of the company.”
Forth Valley College Principal Dr Ken Thomson said: “Congratulations to Harris who should be very proud of his efforts throughout the course of his MA studies and his employment with TechnipFMC. He has without a doubt been a credit to himself, to the College and his employers and we are confident he will go on to have a very successful career.”
Keith Brown, said: “It was fantastic to be involved in Forth Valley College’s first graduation ceremony in Clackmannanshire - something that I have lobbied for over a number of years.
“I’d like to congratulate everyone who graduated and in particular Harris on what is a fantastic achievement. We are all well aware of how much hard work goes into the Modern Apprenticeship and to be awarded MA of the Year is a testament to his outstanding commitment over the course of his studies. I wish him and all the other graduates all the best for the next steps in their journey.”
Shaun Goodwillie (21) from Fallin. Shaun, graduated with a MA in Fabrication and Welding and works for E & R Moffat Ltd in Bonnybridge.
Shaun, said: “It was a good apprenticeship and I learned a lot and all the skills transferred into the workplace. That’s me got a trade now and I am very pleased. I would recommend the MA programme as you earn while you learn.”
Two MAs from the Falkirk area who graduated on the night were Jayme Smyth (19) from Grangemouth who works for Michaela Hair and Beauty and Laura MacLeod (19) from Falkirk who works for Rod Smith Hairdressing Salon.
Jayme, said: “I am very proud of myself for completing my MA and graduating here at the Alloa awards ceremony.”
Laura, added: “It’s been a great two years and I would recommend it to anyone. I too am very proud of myself.”
Two MAs from Clackmannanshire who graduated on the night were Chloe Evison a MA in Hospitality Services (28) from Tillicoultry and Nic Livingstone (46) a MA in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership. Both work at the Mill Café at the Sterling Furniture company.