With an impressive 37 years in the utility sector, Scott McCrae has not only created a successful training company but has also helped shape and influence the water industry with his extensive experience and knowledge.
Scott started his career as an apprentice at Scottish Water, where he gained a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of water operations. After completing his apprenticeship, he progressed through multiple roles within the company before moving to an American engineering consultancy and a drainage contractor, gaining a broader perspective on the utilities sector. During this time, Scott also began lecturing at Glasgow Clyde College, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of industry professionals.
In 2009, following redundancy, Scott transitioned into a new chapter of his career by becoming a self-employed trainer. In December 2011, after two successful years as a trainer, Scott founded McCrae Training and today the business is a thriving training organisation, employing 22 members of staff and operating six training centres across the UK and Ireland.
Throughout his career, Scott has been actively engaged with Energy & Utility Skills, contributing to the development and implementation of key industry standards. His initial involvement began when he participated in the first working group for the National Water Hygiene (NWH) scheme. As a strong advocate for skills development, Scott has continued to collaborate with Energy & Utility Skills on numerous initiatives, including key input on National Occupational Standards for Water and Gas Network Operations and offering guidance on sector-specific changes.
As a trainer, Scott delivered various EUSR schemes including NWH and SHEA Water and his relationship with Energy & Utility Skills strengthened when he founded McCrae Training which also delivers several EUSR schemes and endorsed training programmes, solidifying his ongoing commitment to enhancing workforce skills and supporting the utility sector.
One of Scott’s standout memories with the business was developing a flange and gasket installation course, which improved the quality of mechanical joint installations and reduced leakage rates across water networks. The scheme’s high quality led to its endorsement by EUSR.
Reflecting on his career, Scott identifies one of the biggest challenges currently facing the utility sector is: the declining attractiveness of the industry to new entrants. Despite the breadth of career opportunities available, the sector struggles to attract fresh talent. Scott believes that industry-wide collaboration is essential to reversing this trend and ensuring the future sustainability of the workforce.
“We need to look at skills initiatives collectively,” Scott emphasises. “There’s a real need for ongoing partnerships between training providers, companies, and industry bodies to address these challenges. The sector offers incredible career opportunities, and it’s crucial to communicate that to prospective employees.”
For Scott, the journey is far from over. He is driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to leave a lasting legacy. As he continues to shape the future of the utility sector, his story serves as an inspiration for others, demonstrating what can be achieved with commitment, adaptability, and a focus on continuous improvement.
