Young people explore energy careers at MAK STEM Fest in Campbeltown
12 March 2026
Image: Pupils got the chance to work with electric circuits as part of the workshop events
An event aimed at inspiring the next generation of energy sector professionals took place in Campbeltown recently.
Held at MACC Business Park, the MAK STEM Fest was sponsored by SSEN Transmission’s Crossaig 275kV substation project and its principal contractor, BAM Siemens Energy JV.
Around 180 pupils from Lochgilphead, Tarbert and Campbeltown High Schools took part in the day‑long event, which brings together employers whose operations and apprenticeship pathways rely on STEM skills.
The event gave pupils the opportunity to speak directly with employers, explore different routes into STEM careers, and take part in a series of hands‑on workshops, including electric circuits, a popular bridge‑building challenge and VR headsets that let pupils view and work with transmission towers.
Project team members from SSEN Transmission and BAM Siemens Energy JV were on hand to discuss the Crossaig substation project, which is currently under construction.
As well as outlining the project’s role in strengthening Argyll’s transmission network to support Scotland’s energy security and clean energy ambitions, the team showcased the wide range of career opportunities available across the energy sector. On the same day, a group of pupils visited the substation site for a work experience session, giving them an insight into the key elements of a major construction project.
The MAK STEM Fest comes as part of a wider initiative led by the Argyll, Lomond and the Islands Energy Agency (ALIenergy), which aims to deliver engaging Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths activities for young people across Mid Argyll and Kintyre.
It is the second year running that SSEN Transmission and BAM Siemens Energy JV has sponsored the event.
Rachel Glen, Assistant Project Manager for the Crossaig substation project, said:
“At SSEN Transmission, we’re proud to champion STEM learning and help equip the next generation with the skills they need to build their future in the energy sector.
MAK STEM Fest was a brilliant opportunity to show young people the wide range of careers our industry offers, and to explain how projects like Crossaig are strengthening energy security while helping deliver clean, renewable power to homes and businesses across the country.
The pupils’ enthusiasm and curiosity shone through in every workshop, and their energy made the day genuinely inspiring for everyone involved. I’d also like to thank BAM Siemens Energy JV for their involvement and generous support in helping make the event such a success.”
Innes Mackintosh, Social Sustainability Manager, BAM UK & Ireland said:
“Supporting the MAK STEM Festival over the past two years has been a real privilege for the Crossaig substation project team at BAM, Siemens Energy and our key client, SSEN Transmission.
Events like this give us a valuable opportunity to engage with pupils and inspire the next generation of talent. They also help us show that our industry is diverse – engineering is a major part of what we do, but there are many different career paths across the sector, offering opportunities for a wide range of skills.”