Scottish Apprentice Week 2026
This Scottish Apprenticeship Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the people who are helping shape the future of McTaggart Construction; our apprentices. From joinery and painting & decorating to quantity surveying, each of them has taken a bold step into the world of work, choosing to learn their trade hands-on while building the skills and confidence that will carry them throughout their careers.
We sat down with five of our apprentices to find out what brought them to McTaggart Construction, what they’re proud of, and what advice they’d give to anyone thinking about following in their footsteps.
Euan – Graduate Apprentice, Quantity Surveying
Euan’s connection with McTaggart goes back further than most. He first noticed the company working on a site near his home when he was younger, and what he saw left an impression. When the opportunity to join came along, he already had a sense of the quality and reputation he’d be part of.
“Combining work with study gives me the best environment to grow. Learning on the job provides real examples and practical context that supports everything I’m doing at university”
What excites Euan most is the moment that drawings become reality, visiting site and seeing the elements he’s measured and planned actually take shape in the built environment. His mentors, Calum and Victor, have played a huge part in his journey, always making time to help him work through challenges and build his understanding.
He’s also quietly earning the trust of those around him, something he’s genuinely proud of.
“My peers and mentors consistently demonstrate their trust in me by seeking my input and relying on the work I produce”
Euans three words: Fun. Exciting. Challenging.
Connor – Graduate Apprentice, Quantity Surveying
Connor came to McTaggart through Glasgow Caledonian University, where the company was actively looking to convert a full-time student into a Graduate Apprentice, combining real industry experience with continued part-time study. For Connor, it was the ideal arrangement.
“It was a great opportunity to learn and develop a real understanding of how things work in the industry on a day to day basis”
Every day brings something new, and Connor has thrived in that environment. His Managing QS, Kerrie, has been a central figure in his development, always creating opportunities for him to take on new responsibilities while being on hand with support whenever it’s needed.
In terms of proud moments, Connor has been given responsibility for running two of his own sites, one with a contract value exceeding £12 million.
If Connor has one piece of advice to anyone looking into apprenticeships with McTaggart Construction, it would be this… “Take the opportunity! McTaggart Construction is a brilliant company to work for, and the people around you always have time to help you grow”
Connor’s three words: Continuous Development & Growth
Jocelyn – Graduate Apprentice, Quantity Surveying
Jocelyn’s route to McTaggart came through a trusted source, her mum, who has worked at the company for several years and spoke highly of it. Hearing that first-hand recommendation made applying feel like an easy decision.
“My mum really enjoys working at McTaggart Construction and said it would be a great place to do my apprenticeship – and she was right”
For Jocelyn, one of the biggest draws of an apprenticeship was the chance to earn a degree without the financial pressure that comes with full-time university study. The mix of on-site experience and academic learning gives her the best of both worlds, and she can see her work progressing in real time.
Her mentor Chris has been instrumental in her growth, building both her knowledge and her confidence. And when asked about a proud moment, Jocelyn’s answer speaks volumes about her journey so far…
“Going from needing constant support to being able to work independently, and knowing when to ask for help – that’s something I’m really proud of”
Jocelyn’s three words: Challenging. Fascinating. Fun.
Kate – Joinery Apprentice
Kate started her joinery apprenticeship in August 2025 and is currently completing her first year at Springburn College on an accelerated route – working through a four-year programme in just two. After struggling to secure a place on college courses, she decided an apprenticeship was the right path forward, and she hasn’t looked back.
“People always ask why I want to be a joiner, but getting hands-on experience while fining out if it’s something you genuinely enjoy before fully committing made perfect sense to me”
What Kate loves most about the job is the variety and the people – no two days are the same, and the team around her makes all the difference. She credits her mentor Alex for showing her the ropes and encouraging others on site to make sure she’s getting stuck into the real work.
Her ambitions? To one day run her own joinery company, with an all-female team. In the meantime, she’s already giving back, helping fellow students at college whenever she can.
Kate’s three words: Fun. Informative. Rewarding.
Kyle – Painting & Decorating Apprentice
Kyle attended Ayr College for three years studying painting and decorating before taking the step into an apprenticeship. He heard about the opportunity through word of mouth, applied, and the rest, as they say, is history.
“It opens up different opportunities and experiences that you just don’t get in a classroom”
The thing Kyle values most in his role is the freedom to use his own initiative, getting on with the job independently and taking ownership of his work. That confidence was on full display when he stood up and delivered a talk in front of students and teachers – something he’s genuinely proud of.
For now, Kyle is happy right where he is, but he’s keeping an open mind about what the future might hold, including the possibility of going out on his own one day.
Kyles three words: Adapting. Fun. Exciting
Investing in the Next Generation
Across trade and professional roles, our apprentices bring energy, curiosity, and fresh perspective to everything they do. We’re proud to support them every step of the way and proud of the talented people they’re becoming.
If you’re thinking about an apprenticeship with McTaggart Construction, there’s no better time to take that first step. As our apprentices themselves would tell you: “just go for it”.
