Adam Laidlaw didn’t always see himself working in science but he knew he wanted to learn by doing. When Adam saw the opportunity come up for a Modern Apprenticeship with GSK in Montrose, he trusted his instincts and took the leap: “I saw the job and thought the sound of it was very interesting, so I took the first plunge and applied.”
A Practical Path Forward
Having always preferred practical subjects like woodwork, graphic communication, design and manufacturing at school where he could build, create and problem-solve, Adam revealed that apart from a bit of physics, he wasn’t that into Science at school. This all began to change when he entered GSK’s world of pharmaceutical manufacturing.
“I haven’t always been interested in science… but when reading about the job and starting at college, I started to have an interest in more science subjects.”
Now an Apprentice Process Technician, Adam is learning how to manufacture pharmaceutical products at scale while studying part-time at Dundee and Angus College.
Learning Alongside Like-Minded People
Speaking about his experience as an apprentice so far, Adam noted, “it has been good and fun to work with other like-minded people who share the same interests as me.” That sense of connection with both classmates and colleagues has helped him find his place and feel supported during his apprenticeship.
Studying at Dundee and Angus College, Adam is gaining the technical knowledge which helps him to better understand what’s happening day-to-day at GSK, “I have learnt about different things through this course that can be closely related to the job that I am doing at GSK” said Adam.
Making an impact at GSK
Each day on site starts with checking in on the current stage of production and figuring out where he can help. Whether it’s supporting the process or stepping in when someone needs a hand, Adam is always looking to contribute, “If others need a helping hand, I will do it to make sure everything is done to a high level.”
Adam’s determination to get involved and make an impact even when things get tough has shaped his experience just as much as the technical training. His time at GSK and D&A College has developed far more than just his scientific knowledge, he’s picked up transferable skills that make a difference in any workplace.
“I’ve gathered lots of knowledge on how to make things, how to fit into a working environment, how to speak to bosses and lots more.”
Balancing the demands
During his apprenticeship, one of Adam’s biggest challenges has been balancing full-time work with college coursework can be intense, especially when the demands of both pile up.
For Adam this has meant sacrificing evenings and weekends to stay on track as he notes: “There have been time management challenges, but things can be worked out. I use my own time at home to catch up.”
Looking to the future
While Adam’s future isn’t set in stone, he’s hopeful that he will continue working in the science sector, “I would like to continue in this line of work, but you never know what opportunities arise or if my aspirations change further down the line.”
Advice for Future Apprentices
Now that he’s well into his Process Manufacturing apprenticeship, Adam has one key piece of advice for anyone thinking about following a similar path: “Take the plunge 100%. If it isn’t for you in the end, at least you’ve gathered some money and gained valuable experience in a workplace environment.”
“If I had to sum up my apprenticeship experience in three words, I’d say different, challenging and rewarding.”