The power of apprenticeships at MDL

Fraser and Lewis reflect on their apprenticeship journeys as MDL celebrates Scottish Apprenticeship Week.

MDL has a 14-year history of employing apprentices. Over the years, more than 20 apprentices have gained hands-on experience, recognised qualifications and long-term career opportunities within our growing business.

As we mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud to reflect on the journeys of two apprentices at different stages in their careers. Fraser is just starting out as a mechanical apprentice while Lewis has recently completed his apprenticeship. Together, their experiences represent the beginning and the culmination of the apprenticeship journey at MDL.

Starting out

For first-year apprentice Fraser, choosing MDL was about reputation and opportunity.

“The positive reputation helped me choose MDL, along with the opportunities it can lead to in the future.”

From day one, Fraser has been immersed in both practical and college-based learning. What stands out most to him is the balance between gaining knowledge and applying it in real situations.

“I have enjoyed meeting different people, both at work and at the college, and how I get opportunities to put the skills I learn to use.”

Learning on the job comes with challenges and that’s intentional. At MDL, apprentices are trusted to develop through experience.

“Everyone has been patient with me and helped me by allowing me to make some mistakes so I can reflect and see what I've done wrong. They have taught me how to do it better, so I am always improving my skills.”

That culture of support and continuous improvement is central to how we develop apprentices at MDL.

Staying the course

Recently qualified apprentice Lewis reflects on how the foundations built during his apprenticeship prepared him for his current role as a mechanical technician.

“Learning the basics such as understanding different hydraulic fitting types and fastener sizes has helped me through my apprenticeship.”

Developing that understanding of core mechanical and hydraulic principles is a key focus at MDL. Apprentices are supported to build their knowledge step by step, combining hands-on project work with structured training to strengthen both competence and confidence.

For Lewis, additional training played an important role in reinforcing those fundamentals.

“Completing a Level 1 hydraulic course made a positive difference in my apprenticeship.”

The course complemented his practical experience in the workshop, giving him a deeper understanding of hydraulic systems and confidence when applying those skills on live projects.

When asked what advice he would give to someone considering an apprenticeship at MDL, Lewis keeps it straightforward:

“If they know how to work a spanner and like dealing with different challenges on every job, go for it.”

Lewis’ progression reflects MDL’s approach to apprenticeships, developing strong technical foundations, reinforcing learning through formal training and preparing individuals to contribute confidently as capable members of the team.

The role of mentorship

At MDL, experienced team members guide and support apprentices. Jim, Mechanical Team Lead at MDL, who mentors Fraser and previously supported Lewis, explains:

“We strive to involve the apprentices in a wide range of mechanical and hydraulic tasks on varied projects. This ensures they are not solely assigned to one journeyman. This helps to build the skills, confidence and mindset needed to become a fully capable team member in the future.”

By exposing apprentices to different projects and team members, we make sure knowledge is shared, standards remain high and every apprentice is equipped for long-term success within MDL.

Why apprenticeships matter

Apprenticeships at MDL are a long-term investment - in our people, our business and our industry. They allow us to nurture emerging talent, strengthen our capabilities and support the future of engineering within the energy and maritime sectors.

From Fraser’s first experiences in the workshop to Lewis stepping into his role as a qualified mechanical technician, their stories highlight the progression that’s possible when opportunity combines with hard work.

Visit our Personnel page to learn more about the expertise and capabilities of the team our apprentices join. You can also see our people in action and keep up to date with team highlights on our One Team MDL page on LinkedIn.