Young people from across mid Argyll and Kintyre came together last month to find out how skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths can open a wide range of opportunities in Argyll and Bute.
The event, MAK STEM Fest 2026, at Machrihanish Business Park welcomed 120 S2 pupils from Tarbert Academy, Campbeltown Grammar School and Lochgilphead Joint Campus and offered hands-on STEM workshops from industry leaders and local businesses.
During the day, pupils met with STEM professionals to explore different career pathways available in the area. For the first time, two senior students from each school also visited the Crossaig Substation with BAM Nuttall and SSEN Transmission, offering a real‑world look at major engineering and energy projects happening on their doorstep.
Councillor Luna Martin, Policy Lead for Climate emphasised the growing significance of the green economy for the next generation:
“The renewables and energy sector is expanding rapidly, and with it comes a wealth of new opportunities for young people here in Argyll and Bute. Events like this help pupils understand the emerging range of green jobs and the vital role they can play in creating a more sustainable future.”
Councillor Kieron Green, Policy Lead for Education highlighted the importance of events like MAK STEM Fest in supporting young people’s future learning:
“We continue to develop new ways of learning that help young people explore their interests and build future skills. MAK STEM Fest is a great opportunity for pupils to come together and see first-hand where STEM learning can take them.”
ALIenergy delivered the event as part of a wider programme across Mid Argyll and Kintyre that promotes STEM education and career pathways, with the aim of strengthening the area’s young, skilled workforce.
ALIenergy education team said: “We at ALIenergy are delighted by the success of MAK STEM Fest 2026. There was fantastic engagement from the students and great attendance from local STEM employers. The team at ALIenergy would like to give a massive thank you to SSEN Transmission, BAM Nutall and Siemens Energy for sponsoring this event as well as running fun, interactive and engaging workshops. These were a huge hit with the students and teachers. We would also like to thank our core funders Scottish Power Renewables for their ongoing support for ALIenergy’s education work. Finally, we would like to show our gratitude to all businesses, students and teachers who attended the event and made the day so special.”
