Modern Apprenticeship powers Alice’s career and Scotland’s net zero future
Modern Apprentice Alice Fairbairn is helping shape Scotland’s energy future while inspiring other women into careers in the sector.
Since Alice joined SP Energy Networks (SPEN), she has quickly become a trusted colleague whose work has improved efficiency, boosted customer satisfaction and reduced downtime through faster fault resolution.
The 25-year-old fitter has seen her confidence surge as she helps shape Scotland’s energy future, supports critical infrastructure and contributes to net zero goals.
Alice, from the Borders, handles complex repairs, inspections and maintenance on systems including underground cables and substations.
She also works independently on legacy plant equipment that demands a deep understanding.
When Storm Éowyn battered Scotland in early 2025, Alice volunteered to work in tough conditions to restore power to communities and impressed bosses with her performance under pressure.
Alice, who covers Edinburgh and the Borders, said: “Storm response is a massive part of the job and it’s a challenging environment, but it gets the brain ticking and there’s so much satisfaction when you turn the power back on.
“I also enjoy communicating with customers to ensure they have what they need, whether it’s finding them a generator or helping with hot water and food.”
Working, learning and earning with an apprenticeship has developed Alice’s skills and helped her get on in life.
Working, learning and earning with an apprenticeship has developed Alice’s skills and helped her get on in life.
She said: “A Modern Apprenticeship is one of the best opportunities you could ever receive in life – studying and working while earning a wage.
“My apprenticeship has given me so much independence. I’m saving for a deposit for a mortgage, and I’ve been able to pay for my car. My confidence has also soared.
“Gaining qualifications while you work offers a good life balance.”
As well as working, learning and earning, Alice also mentors fellow apprentices and represents SPEN at school careers events.
She explained: “It’s important to show young people, especially women, that a Modern Apprenticeship in energy is a great career option.”
Alice uses every job as an opportunity to strengthen her customer service skills. By attending a wide variety of call-outs, including during storms, she’s building the experience needed to communicate clearly with customers, manage expectations and ensure a positive overall experience.
On the job, Alice applies her training during live situations and has become increasingly effective at faultfinding and resolving issues quickly.
Her ability to adapt and problemsolve in real time has helped minimise delays on site and led to quicker fault repair and less operational downtime.
Alice’s role supports SPEN’s strategic objectives, including modernising the grid and decarbonising homes and businesses.
Alice said: “It’s exciting to be part of Scotland’s energy future and the drive towards clean power.”
Modern Apprenticeships and apprentices are working for Scotland, developed with employers to meet workforce demand. They are jobs open to anyone aged 16 and over who want to work, learn and earn.
Modern Apprentices spend most of their time learning in the workplace while being supported by a learning provider, like a college, to gain an industry-recognised qualification.
SP Energy Networks Head of Workforce Renewals Jen Davies said: “Apprenticeships are not just a recruitment tool – they’re an investment in our people, our communities and the future of energy.
“Apprenticeships plug critical skills gaps, attract local talent, improve staff retention, build a loyal workforce and create long-term career pathways.”
Forth Valley College’s Head of Apprenticeships Caroline Hogg, said: “We are delighted Alice has been recognised for her hard work and dedication.”
Alice joined the Merchant Navy after school, spending three years at sea as an engineering cadet but wanted a land-based job with clear progression.
She loves learning on the job and seeks growth. When she broke her ankle, she asked for extra training during her three-month recovery, staying connected by helping to assign workloads.
Jen said: “Alice has demonstrated exceptional commitment and professionalism throughout her apprenticeship, consistently going above and beyond with initiative and a proactive approach to learning and development. She’s a truly outstanding ambassador for our business.”
Alice is a finalist in the Modern Apprentice of the Year – SCQF Level 6+ category at this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Awards in association with SP Energy Networks.
The awards take place on 26 February as the launch event for Scottish Apprenticeship Week (2 to 6 March). Find out more about the award finalists and the event by visiting apprenticeships.scot/awards