Black Isle plant mechanic hailed for going extra mile as she scoops Scottish Plant Owners Association apprentice award
AN “extraordinary” Black Isle apprentice mechanic who “consistently goes the extra mile” has been rewarded for her dedication to learning the trade.
Lara Mcleman (23), who works for Scot JCB in Muir of Ord, has been named Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year 2024/2025.
The accolade from the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA).
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Lara, originally from Avoch, studied at Fortrose Academy. She is currently working her way through her CITB apprenticeship as a plant mechanic. The apprenticeship requires Lara to attend the National Construction College in Inchinnan as well as working with the team at Scot JCB.
She said it came as a total surprise when she was named Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year at the SPOA’s annual dinner in Glasgow. She said: “I am absolutely delighted with this award. I love my job and I really value everything I am learning on my apprenticeship. I am grateful to Scot JCB for the opportunity.”
Her employer, Iain Bryant, joint managing director at Scot JCB, said: “Lara fitted into the team at Muir of Ord immediately and her commitment and ability have really shone through. It's fantastic that she's been recognised like this and we're proud that she works for Scot JCB.”
Fraser Coull, Andy Cowan and Martyn Paton, from the plant mechanic team at the National Construction College in Scotland, said of Lara: “It has been a pleasure to participate in Lara’s learning and professional journey.
“Lara is an extraordinary apprentice. Her commitment to the course, her ability to meet deadlines, and her consistent attendance have been outstanding. Lara has shown a methodical approach to practical tasks, often completing them with her own motivation before being asked. She consistently goes the extra mile.
“From the moment Lara joined the Plant Mechanics course she has demonstrated a willingness to get her hands dirty and showcase both her academic and practical skills to her lecturers and peers in every task.
“Lara is always willing to support her peers, offering constructive feedback and inspiring others within the training programme. Her dedication and proactive approach in Plant Mechanics make her a deserving winner of this award.”
John Sibbald, President of the SPOA, added: “I sincerely hope that her success will inspire other young people to follow a career in plant.”
Lara can now look forward to a trip to Bauma, the world’s biggest and most exciting construction equipment exhibition, taking place in Munich, Germany, in April. The winning apprentices will stay at a 4-star hotel and enjoy a VIP experience whilst there.
The awards, co-sponsored by The Attachment Company, Currie Contractors and CITB, recognise the achievements of apprentices as they progress through their CITB apprenticeships.
