Sophie Cormack is completing her Business and Administration Modern Apprenticeship with Fife College and Balfour Beatty while working on the College’s new Dunfermline Campus, Scotland’s first net-zero-ready tertiary education building.

Speaking during Scottish Apprenticeship Week last week, Sophie said: “I was originally studying dental nursing but was given some additional administrative responsibilities. Over time, I realised I preferred that side of the role, so I decided to pursue an apprenticeship in Business Administration. It’s given me the flexibility to learn while working, and I like being able to apply what I’m learning directly to my job.”

As part of her role, Sophie works closely with the Office Manager at Balfour Beatty’s site office for the new Dunfermline Campus, overseeing document management, coordinating subcontractor schedules, and organising site visits. She also helps ensure that all contractors have the necessary training accreditations before working on-site.

Sophie, who moved to Dunfermline from Aberdeenshire in 2023, added: “It’s great to be involved in such a big project, especially one that will have such a positive impact on the local community. Living in Dunfermline, I get to see the progress first-hand, which is really rewarding.”

Looking ahead, Sophie hopes to continue her career with Balfour Beatty, building on the skills gained during her apprenticeship.

Jim Metcalfe, principal of Fife College, said: “Sophie’s journey is a fantastic example of how apprenticeships create opportunities, providing invaluable hands-on experience in a real working environment.

“Through her role at Balfour Beatty, Sophie is not only developing essential business skills to advance her career but also playing a key role in the development of our new Dunfermline Campus – a project that will benefit students and the wider community for years to come.

“Fife College is an accelerator for jobs and opportunities, and we are proud to support apprentices like Sophie, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to thrive in their chosen careers.”

Hector MacAulay MBE, managing director of Balfour Beatty’s regional business in Scotland, said: “At Balfour Beatty, we believe that apprenticeships are the future. They provide an unrivalled opportunity to gain practical skills and personal development whilst working on some of the most exciting construction and infrastructure projects.

“Sophie Cormack’s journey exemplifies this perfectly, as she kickstarts her career with us on the Dunfermline Campus. By investing in apprenticeships, we’re investing in the next generation of leaders and creating a skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.”