IT took just one hour for Kathleen Maclennan from Callanish to set her sights on a career in renewable energy.
Local graduate, Kathleen, completed her degree in Geography at Strathclyde University in May 2007 and wanted to return to the islands to utilise her skills.
In January of this year, Kathleen attended a renewable energy workshop organised by HIE Innse Gall to give local graduates and students an insight into the renewable energy sector and employment prospects both within the islands and beyond.
The one-hour workshop confirmed Kathleen’s interest in pursuing the sector after she graduated. Prior to attending the workshop, Kathleen had enjoyed a student placement with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Technical Services Department, looking at Hydrogen Fuel cell use in public transport.
Following her graduation from Strathclyde University, the post of local development officer with HICEC (Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company) was advertised.
Kathleen applied for the job and got it. Currently working from both Stornoway and Benbecula, her new role covers the whole of the Outer Hebrides, advising community groups on how best to make use of renewable energy within their projects.
Kathleen said: “I am really enthusiastic about renewables and for me to get the job I have at the moment is fantastic, I was able to return to the Outer Hebrides after graduating and getting work in an area that really interests me, was something I did not imagine would ever happen.”
Lorna Macaulay, HIE Innse Gall’s head of Developing Skills, added: “Kathleen is a great example of a young graduate embracing new employment opportunities on the island.”
PRESS RELEASE issued by Highlands and Islands Enterprise. You too can post media releases (aka story ideas for journalists) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Mairi Gillies
Phone: 01463 244245
Email: Mairi.Gillies@hient.co.uk
Website: http://www.hie.co.uk
