Scottish Sea Farms Shines at the Lantra Awards

Craig Findlay from Scottish Sea Farms has achieved a remarkable milestone by being named the Aquaculture Learner of the Year at the Lantra Scotland Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills (the ALBAS). This prestigious recognition underscores the dedication and hard work of learners in the aquaculture industry.

Ceremony Highlights

Craig’s achievement was celebrated at an awards ceremony held at the Crieff Hydro Hotel, where he was joined by Finley Forwood, who was named runner-up in the competition. Finley works as an Aqua Technician for Scottish Sea Farms in Shetland and has also made significant strides in his aquaculture career.

Craig’s Journey

Based in Strathcarron in the Highlands, Craig completed a Diploma in Aquaculture through the Marine Science and Technology Department at UHI Shetland while serving as a Senior Marine Technician at Kishorn. Reflecting on his unexpected triumph, Craig expressed gratitude towards his colleagues and mentors, stating, “It’s unbelievable. I’m really happy with the win, and it’s great to have the hard work recognized.”

Originally hailing from East Kilbride and a former Army veteran with 13 years of service, Craig transitioned to aquaculture four years ago after relocating to the Highlands. He was inspired by a job advert from Scottish Sea Farms, seeing it as an opportunity to embark on an enriching new career.

Support and Mentorship

Under the guidance of his Farm Manager, John McCrae, who encouraged him to pursue further education at UHI Shetland, Craig successfully balanced his coursework with his responsibilities at sea. “John has been very supportive; he knows that the more you learn, the better you are,” Craig noted.

During stormy weather when outdoor work was limited, Craig utilized those days to advance his studies with the support of UHI supervisor Guy Tindall. He remarked, “He was always on hand to take my calls and help me; because he is from an aquaculture background, he can speak fish farmer!”

Finley Forwood’s Accomplishments

Finley’s journey in aquaculture is commendable as well; he completed a Modern Apprenticeship in Aquaculture at UHI Shetland while functioning as a fish health specialist at the Girlsta freshwater hatchery. Nominated for the award by his assessor, Saro Saravanan, Finley acknowledged the importance of training alongside work, stating it “has been a brilliant way to develop my skills.”

Finley, now pursuing Level 4 studies, was also recognized as the Marine Sciences Student of the Year upon graduation from UHI Shetland last year. He shared, “I’ve always been obsessed with aquatic life, and growing up in rural areas gave me a deep respect for food production.”

Company Recognition and Awards

Fiona McCann, Head of HR at Scottish Sea Farms, expressed pride in Craig’s and Finley’s achievements, stating, “They are both assets to Scottish Sea Farms, and we look forward to watching them develop their talents even further. They thoroughly deserve this recognition of their dedication and hard work.”

The ALBAS aim to promote careers within the rural sector, celebrate learner achievements, and highlight the necessity for employers to invest in skill development. The awards event was hosted by horticultural magazine publisher, writer, and podcaster MT O’Donnell, with finalists evaluated by an independent judging panel from across the aquaculture and land-based sectors.

Image: Scottish Sea Farms