Bishopbriggs' David is tipped as a future leader in the IT industry

The 21-year-old is on his way to a great career after completing a Software Development Graduate Apprenticeship with Aviva through the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

His commitment and dedication has also led to him becoming a finalist in the Graduate Apprentice of the Year category at this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.

The Awards, delivered by Skills Development Scotland, took place virtually last week.

Since joining Aviva’s team in Perth, David has played a key role in the upgrade of a crucial company-wide software system. His ability to think fast, act decisively and problem solve ensured the successful delivery of the Guidewire Upgrade last year.

Aside from his technical prowess, the former Bishopbriggs Academy pupil was recently nominated for the Top 100 LGBT+ Future Leader category in Yahoo Finance’s 'Outstanding Awards'. He also arranges many social and panel events throughout the Aviva Pride calendar.

David, who previously completed a Modern Apprenticeship at East Dunbartonshire Council, said: “I aspired to earn more qualifications while continuing to build my career – a Graduate Apprenticeship at Aviva was the perfect next step to do that.

“I’m getting exposure to lots of different aspects of IT, while studying for a degree. I love my diversity and inclusion work and we have some great initiatives at Aviva. I was proud to be nominated for the LGBT Future Leader award.”

Aviva Delivery Lead for the Guidewire Platform, Steven Reilly said: “David has been a great Graduate Apprentice for Aviva.

"We have two cohorts of Graduate Apprentices and David has a desire to step up to a leading role within them. Whenever you ask for a volunteer, his hand is always first up.

“As a business, Graduate Apprentices bring a huge array of benefits. It’s fantastic for us to witness, and play a part in, the development of some of the most up and coming talent in the IT Sector.”

Fiona Kennedy, UWS Graduate Apprenticeship Manager, said: “David has worked incredibly hard and is a fantastic ambassador for the UWS Graduate Apprenticeship programme.”