A 23 year-old student from Edinburgh has been awarded a prestigious scholarship which might help him become an expert in the energy and environmental sectors.
Jack Haynes will study an integrated Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, thanks to the ScottishPower Foundation’s Scholarships programme.
Twenty-eight students were awarded the grants following a nation-wide application process and have taken up places at some of the UK’s most esteemed institutions for the next academic year. For the first time, two UK students will venture overseas to study at the Universidad Pontificia de Comillas in Madrid, Spain.
Since it was launched in 2010, the ScottishPower Foundation has invested more than £850,000 in the scheme, however this year sees an increased focus on developing the next generation of industry experts with an unprecedented investment of approximately £700,000 in this year’s programme.
Newly incorporated degrees such as information & communication technology (ICT), cybersecurity and big data management have been included to reflect the demand for modern technology roles in the sector, and to continue to offer graduates an opportunity to progress training in a sustainable energy model in their chosen field.
Jack Haynes said: “When I found out I was so excited but also felt a huge sense of relief, because I had worked so hard on my application and returned from my study abroad year in Hong Kong earlier than planned to attend the interview. It definitely eases the financial pressure and will allow me to focus on my studies.
“I think energy consumption will continue to grow, which will require a change to its generation as sustainability and renewables become a bigger trend. Countries in Europe do a good job at balancing renewables with oil and gas, however other countries globally not so much, so I’m interested to watch and see what they do.”
Ann McKechin, Trustee and Executive Officer of the ScottishPower Foundation, commented: “We’re delighted for this year’s scholars and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead of them. It’s so important that graduates continue to be motivated to continue their journey of development in the industry, and we’re proud that we can be a part of this and help support young people in the UK to take the both the environmental and energy sectors forward.”
More details on the ScottishPower Foundation Scholarships programme can be found at:
https://www.scottishpower.com/pages/scottishpower_foundation_scholarships.aspx
