Dynamic range of Shetland career opportunities showcased

Shetland's unique location means the islands offer a surprisingly diverse range of employment opportunities in a range of dynamic industries.

The archipelago is home to thriving sectors such as tourism, construction and the creative industries. The renewable energy sector is rapidly expanding too, offering numerous job opportunities in engineering, project management and environmental sciences.

What’s more, Shetland’s strong fishing and aquaculture industry presents avenues for careers in marine biology, fisheries management and sustainable seafood production, as well as marine engineering careers.

This variety allows young professionals to explore different sectors, find their passion, and build their career in an environment that interests them.

The welcoming and supportive Shetland community does a lot to nurture the ambitions of its young people. The islands’ community spirit fosters collaboration and networking, enabling young people to build meaningful connections and find mentorship opportunities that can propel their careers forward.

Marie Leask, team leader at Skills Development Scotland, feels that Shetland offers a lot of support to young people. "There’s a careers advisor in every school to offer guidance, and we also offer advice to young people who have left school. In fact, people can self-refer to us at any age."

Marie works closely with local employers to offer work-relevant educational experiences for all young people in collaboration with the schools. She says her job is made easier by the fact that Shetland employers are "so supportive and willing to offer jobs and work experience to young people".

That support extends to education and training providers, with ample access to a diverse range of courses and resources. The islands are home to a University of the Highlands and Islands campus, which offers many courses to enhance skills and knowledge, reflecting the dynamic career opportunities.

Nina says: “Our local UHI is essential in offering courses and training and is vital in maintaining the link between the industries in Shetland and the education sector.’

Nina is also keen to emphasise how work and studies can be combined, saying: "For young people, the education system offers much more flexibility now than there perhaps was when their mum and dad started their careers, which also allows people to stay in Shetland and study while working."

Several local businesses offer apprenticeships so that young people can do exactly that.

For example, Garriock Bros. Ltd., a civil engineering, building and plant hire contractor, have a range of apprenticeships allowing young people to gain vocational qualifications while gaining industry experience.

Arthur Robertson, company director, says: "These apprenticeships are very popular with young people because it allows them to work and study at the same time."

The UK’s leading rope-grown mussel producer, Blueshell Mussels is also setting up an apprenticeship focusing on shellfish. Sam Laurenson, a skipper at Blueshell Mussels says, "It’s important to give young people a change to gain a nationally recognised qualification while gaining experience in an industry as sustainable as mussels."

So what might a career path look like for a Shetland young person?

Nina says: "There are lots of examples in Shetland of people that have started perhaps getting a Saturday job whilst they were still in school and now are perhaps the manager of the business. Hospitality has lots of examples like that. Another sector is construction, where you might start as an apprentice in joinery but move on to become a construction site or project manager."

Shetland has a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit that encourages innovation and creativity, resulting in an environment where young professionals can turn their business ideas into reality.

The local authorities actively promote entrepreneurship and offer support through grants and other initiatives. This nurturing ecosystem encourages young professionals to take risks, explore their ideas and turn them into successful ventures.

Shetland’s unique combination of thriving industries, a supportive community and entrepreneurial opportunities make it an ideal place to develop a career.

The islands provide a nurturing environment where individuals can grow professionally, while exploring their passions and making their mark on the community.

Discover more aboutcareer development opportunities in Shetland.