Greg Morrison, age 14, from Mastrick, has just laid an early career foundation by successfully completing a week’s work experience at oil and gas training company Atlas.
Greg, who is studying computing, design and technology as well as other subjects at the Northfield Academy in Aberdeen, spent his week at the company’s offices in Bridge of Don.
“I worked with the web development team and used lots of different computer programmes.
“I had heaps of fun and I’d love to come back,” Greg said.
Part of his week was working on Atlas’s web pages that are used for education and training in the oil and gas industry.
“I learned to use the e-learning technology and also programmes like HTML and Photoshop.
“I met lots of new people and I also learned about different jobs and how Atlas uses technology to help customers.”
Greg’s advice to other pupils his age, who are interested in doing a placement, was: “Go for it! I really enjoyed it and I’d tell everyone to find a company that will give you opportunities.”
Greg’s passion is technology and although he would love to develop computer games one day, he said: “I don’t really have plans set in stone, but something to do with programming is my aim.
“I discovered that oil and gas companies offer more than just working on an oil rig.”
Atlas chief executive John Rowley said: “With a shortage of suitably-qualified and experienced workers in the oil and gas industry, investing in our young people is paramount.
“Welcoming pupils on work placements is just one way Atlas helps develop students’ talents.
“Last year, we ran a successful graduate training programme with Aberdeen College.
“Offering training, practice and experience benefits Atlas and the students who come to us.
“Students put in an extraordinary level of effort and we are very pleased to have some of them working on full-time contracts now.”