UHI Inverness apprentice scores high to win major award
A talented young electrician, who trained at UHI Inverness, has been named Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) Apprentice of the Year 2026 for her outstanding skill, dedication and professionalism
Katie Munro, from Inverness, took home this year’s top title, which is presented in conjunction with Edmundson Electrical, after impressing judges with her exceptional technical ability, commitment to excellence and determination to succeed throughout her apprenticeship.
The 25-year-old, who works for SELECT member firm RSE (Ross-Shire Engineering Ltd,) received her trophy from SJIB Chair Jock Simpson at a ceremony in Edinburgh, where guests gathered to celebrate the next generation of Scotland’s electrical talent.
Katie was also presented with a £1,000 voucher as part of her prize, recognising her achievement in a highly competitive field of finalists.
Catherine Gillon, Secretary of the SJIB and Director of Employment Relations at electrical trade association SELECT, said:
“Every year, the SJIB Apprentice of the Year Awards showcase the exceptional talent being developed across Scotland’s electrical industry, and Katie is a truly deserving winner.
“Throughout her apprenticeship, she has demonstrated outstanding technical competence, professionalism and commitment to continuous improvement. Achieving a Final Integrated Competence Assessment (FICA) score of 98.33% is a remarkable accomplishment and reflects the high standards she sets for herself in everything she does.
“As well as excelling in her training and workplace responsibilities, Katie has also been a fantastic ambassador for the profession, helping to promote careers in the electrical industry and encouraging greater participation from women considering a career in engineering and construction."
Katie completed her apprenticeship with UHI Inverness under the guidance of SECTT Training Officers Michael Campbell and Iain Lamont.
She said:
“I am delighted to have won this award. Completing my apprenticeship has been very rewarding and I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received along the way.
“It means a lot to be recognised by the SJIB, especially given the high standard of apprentices across the industry. I’d like to thank everyone at Ross-Shire Engineering, my lecturers at UHI Inverness and my SECTT training officers for their encouragement and support throughout my apprenticeship.
“I hope my success encourages more women to consider a career in the electrical industry because it offers fantastic opportunities and a rewarding future.”
Mike Campbell, Apprentice Programme Manager at Ross-Shire Engineering Ltd, said Katie’s achievement came as no surprise to those who had worked alongside her.
He added that everyone at Ross-Shire Engineering is incredibly proud of Katie and all that she has achieved throughout her apprenticeship.
“She brings a fantastic attitude to everything she does, works hard in both practical and academic settings and has shown a real commitment to becoming a highly skilled electrician.”
Issued by SELECT