6th August 2025
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Greg MacLeod, Owner of Precision Plumbing with Plumbing and Heating Apprentice, Jordan McLean. Jordan McLean was given an opportunity to become an apprentice with thanks to support from the Caithness Business Fund.
On its 70th anniversary and in a major recognition of community impact, NRS Dounreay has been awarded the ‘Best socio-economic initiative’ at the NDA Group Employee Awards 2025 for its innovative partnership with the Caithness Business Fund to deliver the FutureSkills programme.
The award celebrates Dounreay’s commitment to strengthening the local economy and developing a resilient workforce as the site moves through nuclear decommissioning. FutureSkills supports apprenticeships, graduate placements, and upskilling opportunities across sectors including engineering, hospitality, and digital technology, targeting small and medium businesses in Caithness and North Sutherland.
Funded by NRS Dounreay, the NDA and West of Orkney Windfarm and managed by the Caithness Business Fund, the programme directly addresses the strategic priority of a ‘just transition’ for communities within the travel-to-work area of the nuclear site. Over the past year, it has helped young people into sustainable employment, while enabling local businesses to invest in future talent and growth.
The award was presented at the NDA Group’s annual employees showcase, where judges thanked the team and praised the initiative as “a model for place-based impact and collaborative legacy-making.”
Working in partnership, the FutureSkills programme exemplifies how nuclear decommissioning can deliver lasting benefit beyond the perimeter fence, ensuring that Caithness’s future is powered by opportunity, innovation, and inclusive growth.
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Vehicle Maintenance and Repair apprentice Corey Gunn, MM Motors Wick
About Caithness Business Fund
The Caithness Business Fund’s mission is to promote the economic growth of Caithness and Sutherland by supporting new and existing businesses and developing the skill base to meet new challenges. Grants up to £5,000 are currently available to support business start-ups, those with growth plans, training needs and some apprenticeships.
The FutureSkills apprenticeship scheme can provide financial support up to a maximum of £24,500 over 3 years. Find out more about FutureSkills and how Caithness Business Fund can support your business, online here.