Young People
Train for an innovative career - and make money!
Want an interesting and well paid job?
Scotland has always been innovative and at the leading edge of scientific development - and we're still pushing the limits of our knowledge.
It's a fact that science, technology, engineering and mathematics change the world we live in everyday: these subjects help to deal with the challenges we all face, such as climate change, global food shortages and disease.
From being an acknowledged leader in biotechnologies, to ground-breaking video game design, Scotland is the place to be when it comes to rewarding careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
And living in the North of Scotland is no different!
As a young person you may think that you have to leave the Highlands and Islands to have a rewarding career in STEM, but there are plenty of opportunities right here on your doorstep! Whether you want to work in Inverness, the Western Isles, Argyll, Orkney, Shetland, or even the Cairngorms National Park, this is the place for you.
Do you want to find out about local businesses in the Highlands and Islands that work in areas related to STEM? Click on the links to read about companies in Engineering, Science (Life Sciences, Marine and environmental Science), Energy (Renewable Energy, Nuclear Energy, Oil and Gas), ICT, Food and Drink, Creative Industries, Finance and Business.
Everyone knows about whisky, North Sea oil and wind turbines. But in the North of Scotland manufacturing also includes mobile phone batteries, carbon fibre, medical devices and 3D design packages. Even seaweed is turned into soap.
Advanced global marine science research is carried out in Oban and a leading maker of international blood glucose monitoring systems is based in Inverness. Cutting edge renewable energy prototype devices are developed in Alness and tested by specialists based in Stromness.
In Stornoway low energy buildings are tested for worldwide customers using unique software programmes while a Moray company has developed one of the largest super-computers on the planet. The world's first deep water off-shore wind farm, producing electricity for the national grid, has been built off the coast of Helmsdale, whilst electric musical instruments are custom built in Fort William for musicians across the world.
These are just a few examples of the hundreds of innovative jobs in companies across the North of Scotland.
Endless opportunities in STEM careers
Keep your options open...
The opportunities are endless. With a STEM qualification you could be involved in rewarding and well paid areas like sport, animal welfare, forensics, banking, software development, geology or film-making.
There are many careers at different levels using STEM subjects - you can go into a job straight from school, or go to college or university.
Straight from school: You can learn the necessary technical skills through Skillseekers or a Modern Apprenticeship. STEM subjects at standard and intermediate grade will be important.
College: Courses are available from introductory or NQ level, where you might need some Standard Grades, to HNC/D level, where you will need 1-2 Highers. Check the college prospectus to find out which subjects are needed before you make your choices.
University: 3-5 Highers are needed, depending on the course. It it important to check out the subjects and grades you will need to make sure you are choosing the right courses at school.
STEM Careers
There's something for everyone!
The possibilities are endless. You can work outdoors, in an office, in a research laboratory or negotiate deals in a conference environment. You could be in a large established firm or a small one starting up. What about being your own boss? Having a successful business can enable you to make a future out of something you love and create wealth for yourself. You could have a career in science, technology, engineering, maths, or energy.
Here are just some of the options open to you through STEM subjects:
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Shell LiveWire
Have you set up your own business?
In that case, UK's biggest online community and information source for young entrepreneurs between 16 and 30 years, Shell LiveWIRE, has money to offer: £1,000 for 'Grand Ideas' every month! Find out what other people's business ideas are like and apply if you think your own business is in with a chance too!