Transforming career paths and supporting change
In 2024, Dan received an award of £1,482 from the Nadara Gordonstown, Auchterless and Fisherford Education and Training Fund to pursue a dream career while making a positive impact on the environment.
Dan transitioned from the oil and gas industry in 2022 and, with help from the funding he received, is now an arborist and utilities tree surveyor based in Auchterless.
The funding enabled Dan to complete three essential forestry courses, whilst gaining experience with SSE Energy Solutions, managing storm damage to woodland affecting the power network.
He now works towards a more environmentally positive future in forestry and ecology.
The role of an arborist is dynamic and frequently presents new challenges, occasionally involving projects beyond its typical scope. Much of Dan's expertise has been acquired through working alongside skilled and experienced colleagues over extended periods. Recently, upcoming projects would require all certifications to be current and accurately documented.
Thanks to the Nadara Education & Training Fund and Foundation Scotland, Dan was able to complete the final two courses necessary to participate in significant assignments, including large-scale storm response operations in Northern Ireland.
As part of a rapid response team, he contributed to restoring major power infrastructure following the extensive damage from the 2024 storms, which left hospitals, schools and homes without electricity for several days.
Completing his final two City and Guilds courses, he earned the necessary UCAS points to pursue a degree in Ecology. This long-held ambition aligns with Dan's lifelong interests in the outdoors, wildlife and land management.
Dan also received a second award of £1,000 to support his first degree module in 2024, and a third award of £450 in 2025 towards a BSD Deer Management Course.
In the coming years, he aims to advance through his degree whilst working, taking on new challenges and completing vocational courses to positively contribute to the sustainable future of Scotland for the benefit of future generations.
Dan says of the Education & Training Fund:
"The last year and a half have been an important milestone in my professional and personal development, all of which wouldn't have been possible without the help and support of Foundation Scotland and the Nadara Gordonstown E&T grant funding.
If you are eligible and live in the grant funding zone please do not hesitate if there is something you want to achieve and you just need the financial and personal support. Foundation Scotland and a Nadara Education & Training grant can help."