A MAJOR Alloa employer is hoping to stand out with a visionary approach to workforce development and community engagement in the Wee County.

The team at Alloa's O-I glassworks is hoping to future-proof the plant through young career programmes, apprenticeships as well as by working with Clacks schools and young workforce associations.

The Alloa plant offers several initiatives and partnerships to nurture young talent, leading several apprenticeship and career-ready programmes.

This includes interactive school visits in a bid to recruit apprentices, focusing on electrical and engineering disciplines, with opportunities for apprentices to continue their careers after four years of training.

Recently, pupils from Alva Academy had the chance to tour the plant with teacher Tony Martin sharing his enthusiasm.

He said: “Today we had a tour of the factory … we did a few tests, and we had a tour of the plant, which was amazing.” 

Educators say experiences like these can be invaluable for students, offering a first-hand look at the intricacies of modern manufacturing and the myriad roles that support it.

Ross McGhee, a first-year electrical engineer, learnt about the opportunities through his school, Alloa Academy.

O-I explained how his journey from student to apprentice underscores the importance of accessible pathways into skilled trades and engineering fields, areas where practical experience and mentorship are essential to mastery.

Gary Little, O-I process engineering manager, explained: “It's massively important, getting young people in from the community to work in here.

“We are one of the biggest employers in Alloa – I don't think many young people at school understand what being an engineer in Alloa means to the place, not just the business.

“It's really big, it's really important for us.”

Each year, the plant welcomes and develops around four apprentices, training them for four years to become true professionals.

Susan Lyall, UK operations leader, added: “After they graduate, we typically offer them career opportunities and continuous training to further develop their skills.

“We also work with local schools, government agencies like DYW [Developing the Young Workforce] here in Scotland but also with career-ready programs locally, with, for instance, employees mentoring local students.

“These partnerships are a great way to connect with local schools and local learning providers so that we can offer these opportunities for young people.”

Michelle Carr, DYW lead for Clackmannanshire, praised the relationship between O-I and educational initiatives.

She said: “O-I is looking to engage with young people and bring them in from school at an earlier age where they can come into O-I, look around their fantastic premises, and find out about the opportunities available to them.”

With a history stretching back over almost 275 years, the O-I Alloa plant is a workplace for over 500 people and a living museum of craftsmanship and technological evolution, producing millions of bottles each year for whisky and other beverages.  

The company said its Alloa initiative is more than a recruitment strategy, it is a “commitment to the community and the glassmaking industry’s future”.