JHE Q&A Could Spark Students’ Career Path

Aspiring electricians will have the chance to learn what it takes to be successful in the industry at an upcoming event at West Lothian College.

Students sitting the NQ SECTT pre-apprenticeship (Level 5) course at the college are to participate in a special Q&A with Mark Heaney, managing director of local firm John Heaney Electrical (JHE), the electrical, engineering and HVAC specialist.

The event will take place on Thursday, 24 September and it will be the second time Mr Heaney has collaborated with the college in this way, having addressed a previous cohort earlier this year.

“I’m more than happy to give my time for something like this as it is important to do what we can to encourage more young people into the industry,” he said.

“Hopefully by providing some background to my own journey and explaining the type of person we look for as a company, it may give the students a clearer idea of the path ahead.”

The 17-week course runs from August to January (and from January to June 2027 for another 17 weeks with a new cohort) and is backed by the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), which manages the electrical apprenticeship programme in Scotland with the electrical industry and selected colleges.

It provides a solid foundation in electrical installation principles, with students gaining practical skills through hands-on training and real-world projects, ensuring they are apprenticeship ready upon completion.

“These courses are invaluable,” said West Lothian College lecturer Steven Addy.

“Companies like John Heaney Electrical appreciate students who have done this kind of college course before they get an apprenticeship. They’ll regard someone who has passed the 17-week course as a good candidate.

“It’s great to have a local business speak to our students. JHE has taken on a number of apprentices in recent years, the students are aware of the company and can see the career progression opportunity.

“Having Mark come in and talk to the students is a really worthwhile exercise. It’s a great opportunity to ask him questions and find out more about what is required and it’s all aimed at  encouraging more people into the electrical industry.”