A collaborative careers initiative aimed at showcasing opportunities across Lochaber has returned for 2026, taking place on Wednesday 4^th March, giving young people and the wider community the chance to explore local career pathways, meet employers, and step behind the doors for a rare behind the scenes look at Britain’s last remaining primary aluminium smelter.

“Your Future Career in Lochaber” was launched by Alvance British Aluminium and sister company Jahama Highland Estates in response to a long‑standing challenge faced by employers across the Highlands: attracting and retaining skilled talent in a remote rural region.

The idea took shape in early 2023 following conversations within the community that highlighted how many local people were unaware of the full range of opportunities available on their doorstep. At the same time, employers were seeing more roles filled by people relocating from the Central Belt and further afield, while housing pressures continued to affect local families.

In response, Alvance British Aluminium launched an open, community focused event during Scottish Apprenticeship Week to highlight the breadth of roles available across both companies. Students, parents, carers, and locals were invited to explore career options, ask questions, and start conversations about building long-term futures in Lochaber.

What began as an internal initiative quickly grew into something with wider community impact. After a successful first year, other employers shared similar challenges around recruitment and skills retention. This opened the door to a collaborative approach, bringing on board major local businesses including BSW Timber and Ferguson Transport & Shipping, alongside education partner UHI Inverness.

The 2026 event offered visitors a tour of the smelter and its operations, as well as the chance to meet employers from across the region and discover a wide range of training, apprenticeship and employment opportunities.

The event follows recent recognition for Alvance British Aluminium, which received the Developing Future Talent Award at the MAKE UK Manufacturing Awards 2025 for the North West of the UK. The award recognised the company’s long-term commitment to apprenticeships, skills development and creating sustainable pathways within manufacturing communities.

Speaking on behalf of Alvance British Aluminium, Tom Uppington, Managing Director, said:

“For Alvance British Aluminium, this initiative is about creating the right conditions for local success. It supports our long-term aim to build a skilled and sustainable workforce, reduce future recruitment pressures, and show that world-class careers don’t only exist in cities. When people choose to stay in the Highlands to train, develop and work – whether with us or another local employer it’s a win for everyone. That shared benefit is what continues to drive our collaboration with local businesses.”

Thomas Jordan, Maintenance Supervisor, at BSW Timber, commented:

“BSW Timber was pleased to support the recent careers fair hosted by Alvance British Aluminium. Events like this provide an important opportunity to engage with people from the local area and highlight the wide range of careers available within the BSW Timber. It was encouraging to see strong interest in the sector, and initiatives like this play an important role in supporting the future growth of the industry.”

Jacqueline MacLeod, Head of Human Resources at Ferguson Transport & Shipping, further commented, saying:

“It was a pleasure to attend the careers fair and collaborate with other local organisations to showcase the opportunities available within Lochaber. Supporting young people and job seekers in exploring their future careers is incredibly important, and we were proud to be part of such a positive and inspiring event.”

Organisers hope the continued growth of “Your Future Careers in Lochaber” will help strengthen local talent pipelines, support employers, and encourage more people to build their future in the Highlands.