New King’s Ambassador Announced for National Awards Scheme

David McKay, Director of Asset Management and Operations at SSEN Transmission has been appointed as a King’s Ambassador for Industrial Cadets, a scheme which supports young people to develop the skills and experience they need before entering the world of work.

Inspired by its Patron, His Majesty, King Charles III, Industrial Cadets is a widely recognised, accredited awards scheme increasing diversity and inspiring young people through industry-based STEM experiences to become part of the workforce of the future.

The King's Ambassadors for Industrial Cadets utilise their valuable expertise and passion to represent and promote the great work that Industrial Cadets does. Bringing with them vast experience in many fields, they spread the word about the benefits of Industrial Cadets to help make a profound difference in the lives of young people.

With his own career beginning in STEM, David has the ideal experience for the role. After joining SSE as a sponsored student straight from school, he completed a degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering. Continuing his journey at SSE, David became a graduate trainee engineer before moving to his first substantive role in Distribution as on Operational Engineer for the company.

Having worked in many roles across the company, David is now Director of Asset Management and Operations and heads up the team that look after the Transmission network –ensuring its safe and efficient operation, keeping the lights on across Scotland and ensuring the flow of clean power across the country.

David McKay, Director of Asset Management and Operations at SSEN Transmission, said: “I am delighted to be appointed as a King's Ambassador for Industrial Cadets, an organisation which does so much good work nationally to promote careers for young people in a wide variety of sectors.

“As someone who left school and immediately went to work in the energy sector as part of a sponsorship scheme – through which I gained a degree and a graduate trainee position with SSE – I understand the value of creating opportunities for young school leavers and graduates that can allow them to fulfil their potential.

“It’s a privilege to have this opportunity to use my experience to help nurture the next generation of industrial talent, and I’m looking forward to joining my fellow ambassadors in promoting the many inspiring programmes and activities that Industrial Cadets offer to help young people progress in their careers.”

Julie Feest, CEO at EDT and Industrial Cadets added, “David is a fantastic addition to our King’s Ambassadors network. His insight and experience will be vital to help us promote the work of Industrial Cadets and help us to reach our ambition to inspire 1 million young people to embrace jobs in Industry by 2035.”