AES Solar have come out on top after being named a winner at the SCDI Highlands & Islands Business Excellence Awards 2021. The awards recognise those who contribute to the economy of the region.
The awards, held virtually on the 24th of June, saw AES Solar pick up The Highlands and Islands Enterprise Award for Excellence in Upskilling, Reskilling and Emerging Leaders. This award recognises our positive transformation of the workforce through our increased productivity, improved business culture, and better organisational planning.
Positive Transformation
We have a long-standing reputation for providing jobs and investing in the young workforce. As a result of this continuous investment in our staff, we have both the Investors in People (Silver) and Investors in Young People (Standard) accreditations. This commitment to our people is evident in the fantastic accolade of this award.
We have been proud advocates of upskilling in the North of Scotland over our 40+ year history. During this time, we have supported a variety of graduate and student programmes. Examples of these programmes include multiple Modern Apprenticeships, ScotGrad Placements and a Graduate Apprenticeship. Consequently, the majority of our staff who came through these opportunities continue to work for us today.
Likewise, we also recently supported the newly launched government Kickstart Scheme. The scheme provides work placements for young people looking for work as we come out of the pandemic. As a result of the scheme we have filled two manufacturing positions to date, with more on the horizon.
This investment in our people has allowed us to cultivate a huge talent pool of solar energy professionals and emerging leaders. As a result, they all contribute towards our larger goal of making sure the energy revolution is a solar one.
The Sky is the Limit
Over the past five years, the company has almost doubled in size. Today we employ 23 people on a full-time basis, the majority of which live local to Moray and the Highlands. Three members of staff were hired during 2020 alone. We also have two current vacancies with more in the pipeline. Subsequently by increasing our workforce, we can provide more opportunities for specialisms and training. In addition we can also increases our capacity for research and development projects.
Managing Director, George Goudsmit said: “We’re absolutely delighted with this award and would like to thank the judges and the sponsors of the night. At AES Solar we think of ourselves as an example of people placed at the heart of the business. We commit to investing in local young people and creating high-value employment. And in return, our people dedicate their efforts to improving themselves and the company.
I feel inspiration and encouragement daily by the team when I am around their dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to help improve our planet. We are in a very inspiring industry and working with inspiring people. Receiving this accolade is incredible recognition for all our efforts.”
Inspiring industry and People
AES Solar are a leading manufacturer & installer of domestic and commercial solar energy systems. We operate from our headquarters in Forres, Moray. Established in 1979 we are one of the oldest solar companies in Western Europe. We have seen consistent, sustainable growth over the past ten years. This is despite riding out the ‘solarcoaster’ for over forty years. In turn, we can invest back into in our staff and the local area. And our commitment to upskilling, reskilling, and investing in emerging leadership is evident in the recognition of AES Solar winning in these Highland Business Awards.
