An apprentice electrician from the Scottish Highlands has been recognised for her “outstanding skill, dedication and professionalism” after being named Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) Apprentice of the Year 2026
Katie Munro, from Inverness, took home this year’s top title after impressing judges with her “exceptional technical ability, commitment to excellence and determination to succeed throughout her apprenticeship”.
The 25-year-old, who works for SELECT member firm Ross-Shire Engineering (RSE) Ltd, received her trophy from SJIB Chair Jock Simpson at a ceremony held in Edinburgh on 14 October.
Katie was also presented with a £1,000 voucher as part of her prize, recognising her achievement in a highly competitive field of finalists.
Catherine Gillon, Secretary of the SJIB and Director of Employment Relations at electrical trade association SELECT, says, “Every year, the SJIB Apprentice of the Year Awards showcase the exceptional talent being developed across Scotland’s electrical industry, and Katie is a truly deserving winner.
“Throughout her apprenticeship, she has demonstrated outstanding technical competence, professionalism and commitment to continuous improvement. Achieving a Final Integrated Competence Assessment (FICA) score of 98.33% is a remarkable accomplishment and reflects the high standards she sets for herself in everything she does.”
Katie completed her apprenticeship with Inverness College UHI under the guidance of SECTT Training Officers Michael Campbell and Iain Lamont.
She adds, “I am delighted to have won this award. Completing my apprenticeship has been very rewarding and I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received along the way.
“It means a lot to be recognised by the SJIB, especially given the high standard of apprentices across the industry. I’d like to thank everyone at RSE, my lecturers at Inverness College UHI and my SECTT training officers for their encouragement and support throughout my apprenticeship.”
This year’s competition also saw Joe Boddie, 22, from Fochabers, and 21-year-old Lewis Hainey, from Auchterarder, named as finalists.
Joe works for SELECT member firm McDonald & Munro Ltd and studied at Moray College UHI under Training Officers Mike Bruce and Craig Wallace, while Lewis works for SELECT member FES Ltd and trained at Forth Valley College’s Alloa campus under Training Officer Ryan Slessor.
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