David MacMillan

David McMillan (24), from Tomatin, studied a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science at Perth College UHI before volunteering.

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after I left university so I decided to try and get lots of different experience,” he said.

The 24-year-old worked for Scottish Natural Heritage, the Scottish Wildlife Trust, RSPB and the Nevis Landscape Partnership before deciding to apply for a Modern Apprenticeship in Trees and Timber with Scottish Forestry and the Scottish School of Forestry.

“I volunteered as a ranger and loved being outside in the forests, but I was really interested in learning more about the industry and what was going on behind the scenes. I’d love to move into forestry conservation and this apprenticeship is the perfect starting point.”