A young woman who started an apprenticeship with a Forres company, has won an award for her inspiring work to encourage other young women into a male-dominated industry.
Kiera Wright, who joined AES Renewables through a graduate apprenticeship in 2021, has developed into a skilled engineer working across PV design, grid compliance and technical support.
Last week she was named ‘Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year’ at the Scottish Apprentice Awards in Glasgow.
Her work supports renewable energy projects across Scotland, but it’s her outreach in local schools and colleges that has made her a standout figure in her community.
Confidence for girls
Kiera said: “I never imagined I would win this award. I started my apprenticeship hoping to find a path into engineering without leaving home, and it has become so much more than that. Meeting young people in our local schools and helping them see that engineering could be a future for them has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. If my story helps even one girl feel more confident choosing this path, then that means a lot to me.”
The award recognised her role in encouraging girls and young women into engineering and contributing to technical work that supports Scotland’s transition to net zero.
AES Reneables head of project delivery added: “Kiera brings real care and clarity to her work, and her progress over the last few years has been remarkable. She has become a trusted member of our team and a role model for young people across the region who are considering engineering. This recognition is very well deserved, and we are all delighted for her.”
Point of contact
Kiera’s Graduate Apprenticeship combines full‑time work with degree‑level study, allowing her to gain hands‑on technical experience while completing her engineering qualification. She has worked on detailed PV designs, managed the G99 process and supported customers with technical queries. Her growing expertise has made her an important point of contact within the business.
She is also becoming known for the time she gives to others. Through school visits, mentoring and work experience support, Kiera has helped many young people across Moray and the Highlands understand what a career in engineering can look like. For girls in particular, seeing someone from their own area build a successful career close to home has had a powerful impact.
AES Renewables, formerly AES Solar, is the UK’s longest-established solar installer, now installing renewable energy heating systems.