West Highlands and Islands trainees Hannah Thomson, Lydia Emmerson, Billy Anderson, Aaron Roberts, Daniel Needham and Craig Findlay have all been short-listed for Lantra Scotland’s Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills (the ALBAS), which will take place at Crieff Hydro Hotel on Thursday 5 March 2026.
Hannah Thomson from Oban, has completed a Modern Apprenticeship in Trees and Timber through the Scottish School of Forestry, while employed as a Craftsperson Modern Apprentice with Forestry and Land Scotland.
Hannah said: “My passion for forestry began on local walks led by a tree surgeon whose enthusiasm was infectious. His stories sparked a lifelong curiosity about trees, and today I feel privileged to work with them – from felling and processing to surveying and conservation, seeing their full potential at every stage.”
Lydia Emmerson from the Isle of Lewis, has completed a Professional Diploma in Equine Facilitated Learning & Development through Equi-Scotia CIC.
Lydia said: “My lifelong bond with horses is what drew me to this industry. Getting my first horse taught me how to communicate, self-regulate, and thrive in ways school couldn’t, especially as autism and ADHD made learning difficult. Creating my own path around horses transformed how I learn and who I am.”
Finally, Billy Anderson from the Isle of Harris, has been doing a Modern Apprenticeship Level 4 in Aquaculture with UHI Shetland, while working as a Site Manager with Bakkafrost.
Billy said: “I was drawn to fish farming by its blend of sustainability, innovation, and hands-on work with nature. Producing high-quality salmon while helping protect wild stocks inspires me, and I find real satisfaction in seeing fish thrive and knowing my work contributes to a responsible industry.”
Aaron from Ardgour in Fort William has completed a National Certificate in Gamekeeping through North West and Hebrides UHI, while working as a Trainee Stalker on Laudale Estate.
Aaron said: “I was drawn to deer stalking by a deep respect for wildlife and a desire to understand animals in their natural environment. What stays with me is the
connection to the landscape, and the responsibility that comes with ethical management.”
Daniel also from Fort William, did an SVQ in Trees and Timber through the Scottish School of Forestry, while working as Apprentice Craftsperson with Forestry and Land Scotland.
Daniel said: “I’ve always loved being immersed in nature, especially woodlands, but it took time to find my way there. After university and a few unfulfilling roles, the FLS apprenticeship gave me the chance to change direction, and I feel fortunate to be part of it – gaining invaluable skills and helping grow, protect, and manage forests for the public good.”
Finally, Craig Findlay from Strathcarron, has completed a Diploma in Aquaculture through Shetland UHI, while working as a Senior Marine Technician with Scottish Sea Farms.
Craig said: “After moving to the Highlands, I was ready for a new career and saw Scottish Sea Farms as the perfect chance to learn something new. The most rewarding moment is harvest – seeing the salmon reach size after months of hard work and challenges and knowing you’ve done the job to the very best of your ability.”
The ALBAS play a vital role in promoting careers within the rural sector, celebrating the achievements of learners and highlighting the importance to employers of investing in skills.
The evening will be hosted by horticultural magazine publisher, writer and podcaster MT O’Donnell.
Industry categories in the ALBAS cover animal care, aquaculture, equine, environmental conservation, game and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering, veterinary nursing and trees and timber.
As well as prizes for Overall Winner, Runner-up and Modern Apprentice of the Year, there are awards for Higher Education, School Pupil, Secondary Schools, Research Project, the Carstairs Mentor Award, the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.
Finalists for ALBAS 2026 were selected by an independent judging panel made up of influential figures from across the land-based and aquaculture sector, comprising: Alix Ritchie, Programme Director of Farmstrong Scotland and a farmer in Perthshire; David Knott, Curator of Living Collections, The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh; Emma Staniforth, Work-Based Learning Manager with Forestry and Land Scotland; Jennifer Allison, Senior HR Business Partner with Bakkafrost Scotland and Scott Mason (Chair of the panel), Land Services Officer with Stirling Council.
Dr Liz Barron-Majerik MBE MICFor, Director of Lantra Scotland commented:
“Lantra Scotland’s ALBAS are a long-established and important part of the land‑based and aquaculture sector, shining a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of skilled and dedicated people at every stage of their careers, from new entrants to those embarking on fresh pathways. They also demonstrate to employers, businesses and partner organisations the real value of skills development and collaborative working.
I’m delighted that we have once again received a record number of entries, so warmest congratulations go to everyone nominated, and very best wishes to all our finalists ahead of the ceremony in March.
My thanks also go to our independent industry judges, to the training providers and employers who put forward nominations, and to our generous supporters whose commitment makes this event possible.” Tickets for the awards ceremony are available at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/lantra
Lantra’s work in Scotland is supported by the Scottish Government.
