Scottish Parliament to Champion the Future of Lifting Engineering
Industry leaders, government representatives, and members of the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) gathered at the Scottish Parliament on 26th March for a pivotal event focused on the future of the lifting sector in Scotland. Hosted by Jackie Baillie MSP, with support from Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), the event underscored the critical need for structured career pathways within the industry.
In his address, LEEA CEO Dr. Ross Moloney addressed attendees, highlighting the sector’s essential yet often overlooked role in industries such as offshore energy, construction, defence, and live events. He emphasised the importance of skill development, stating:
"Developing skills is essential – but those skills must lead somewhere."
The event served as a key milestone in LEEA’s ongoing efforts to establish clear, accessible routes into the lifting industry for young people and career changers. With 134 LEEA member organisations operating in Scotland, the demand for skilled professionals is greater than ever.
Driving Change for Scotland’s Workforce
LEEA is calling for the introduction of a Lifting Engineering Apprenticeship within Scotland’s Modern Apprenticeship Framework to provide structured training and career progression opportunities. To achieve this, the association is actively working with Skills Development Scotland, Enginuity, and training providers to move the initiative forward.
The event also marked the official launch of Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD), with this year’s theme, “Lifting Careers, Building Futures,” reinforcing the industry’s commitment to skills development and career advancement.
A Commitment to the Future
This gathering was not just about raising awareness—it was about building momentum. LEEA remains dedicated to advocating for its members in Scotland and beyond, working alongside government and industry stakeholders to ensure a safer, stronger, and more skilled future for the lifting sector. With more developments on the horizon, LEEA looks forward to sharing the next steps in Scotland soon.
