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SPOA appoints skills and industry engagement officer
The Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA) has appointed a skills and industry engagement officer to support workforce development and training opportunities for its members.
Cheryl MacLennan (pictured) takes up the role, in which she will focus on building strong relationships with members, supporting workforce development and helping connect employers with training opportunities. A focus of the role will be facilitating use of the SPOA’s Tenstar simulator - a state-of-the-art machine simulator which provides opportunities to advance the industry's capabilities and safety standards.
With the ever-evolving landscape of technology, integrating simulation within industry training programmes ensures a cost-effective and innovative approach to professional development. Cheryl will help ensure SPOA members can utilise the huge advantage the simulator has for the industry going forward.
Cheryl has a background in apprenticeships, training delivery and employability, having worked within various sectors including construction.
Commenting on her new role, Cheryl said: “I’m really excited to take on this role within the Scottish Plant Owners Association. My experience in skills development and training align closely with the needs of industry and I am particularly looking forward to attending events, engaging with members and working with the simulator to promote careers in the industry. It is a great way to inspire new entrants and showcase the opportunities within the plant industry.
“I hope to have a positive impact by supporting members with their skills needs, increasing awareness of training opportunities and helping to attract more people into the industry. Ultimately, I want to contribute to building a stronger and more sustainable workforce.”
With Cheryl’s appointment, members will benefit from increased support around training and skills development, including access to information on apprenticeships, and support in developing their workforce to meet industry needs.
David Jarvie, President of the Scottish Plant Owners Association, added: “We are delighted to have Cheryl as part of the SPOA team in a role that we have aspired to introduce over recent years. This role will bring a wide range of benefits for our members and their employees.
“By taking advantage of Cheryl’s support, members can upskill their teams, address skills shortages in the industry, get support on apprenticeships and attract new talent. In turn, members will be able to strengthen their businesses and support the long-term sustainability of the sector.
“We wish Cheryl all the best in her new role and encourage members to get in touch with her to see how she can help support their business.”
Cheryl is based at the SPOA’s Stirling office and will also be attending industry events, including ScotPlant, and other member events throughout the year. Members can get in touch via email at cheryl.maclennan@spoa.org.uk or by phoning 07874272707.