Laura Mcmillan

DWP Employment & Partnership Advisor

When did you join Nigg Skills Academy?

I was seconded to Nigg Skills Academy in 2012, when the academy opened. I now work two days a week from the academy.

What is your background?

I started work in the Department for Work and Pensions in 1986 (a lifetime ago!) as a work coach. From there, I have been on various secondments, working alongside Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC on an employability programme, and NHS Highland on its condition management programme, Kickstart Employability.

Working at Nigg Skills Academy has been a huge learning curve for me, getting my head around who apprenticeship registrations and funding works; the welding processes and welder codings; and training required within SVQs, NPORS, CSCS and other qualifications.

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing our unemployed trainees securing careers in engineering, renewables and construction.

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in the energy & engineering sector?

The first thing an employer asks us is: “Who do you have on the course that is reliable?” Turn up at the academy every day ready for training, be prepared to work hard and put the hours in, and the rewards will come your way.


Laura Mcmillan - DWP Employment & Partnership Advisor