Aquaculture trainees shortlisted for Lantra Scotland’s ALBAS 26
Aquaculture trainees Billy Anderson, Craig Findlay, and Finley Forwood have 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.
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.”
Finley Forwood from Shetland has completed a Modern Apprenticeship in Aquaculture through UHI Shetland while working as a Fish Health Specialist with Scottish Sea Farms.
Finley said: “Growing up in rural areas gave me a deep respect for food production, and the chance to combine that with biology and daily work with animals was irresistible. Watching salmon develop from egg to smolt is incredibly rewarding – being part of that journey, and knowing the care that I provide supports each generation, is deeply fulfilling.”
Craig Findlay from Strathcarron in the Highlands, 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 said: “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 www.ticketsource.co.uk/lantra
Lantra’s work in Scotland is supported by the Scottish Government.
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