At Scot Agri, our people are encouraged to grow, develop their skills and build long-term careers. Robert Findlay, now Service Supervisor at our Perth depot, is a great example of how an apprenticeship can be the start of an exciting and rewarding career in agriculture.  

Starting Out  

Robert’s career started back in 2001 with a Saturday job that eventually led him to apply for an apprenticeship at AM Phillip, long before it became a part of Scot Agri. ‘I’ve always had a huge interest in agriculture and loved tinkering and fixing things,’ he explains. ‘It was always something I knew I wanted to do.’  

Coming from an agricultural background, Robert grew up around farms and machinery. ‘It’s in the blood,’ he says.  

Learning to Rely on Yourself 

Robert’s apprenticeship gave him the foundation he needed to progress in his career. He learned to rely on himself, make decisions independently, and build his technical skills. ‘One of the main things I took from my apprenticeship was learning to make your own decisions and trusting yourself,’ he says. ‘It really helps you grow confidence and believe in what you’re doing.’  

Throughout Robert’s apprenticeship and beyond, he has developed a broad range of technical abilities, from mechanical repairs and diagnostics, IT, electrics, and modern agricultural technology. ‘It’s not just mechanics anymore,’ he says. ‘You’re dealing with IT systems, electrical work, diagnostics – the technology keeps evolving, and you’re always learning something new.’ 

Climbing the Career Ladder  

After completing his apprenticeship, Robert became an Engineer, gaining satisfaction from repairing machines and working independently. Over time, he moved into the Service Supervisor role at our Perth Depot, where he now manages the workshop, coordinates engineers, and communicates with our customers.  

Along the way, Robert also completed management courses, giving him the skills to lead his team confidently and support new apprentices coming through the workshop. He enjoys helping others learn and takes pride in seeing people progress as a result of the help and support he gives.  

Advice for Future Apprentices 

For anyone thinking about becoming an apprentice, Robert’s message is clear: ‘Go for it.’  

He describes apprenticeships as a rewarding career path, especially for those who enjoy fixing things and seeing the end result. The job brings a real sense of accomplishment and helps build confidence – both in technical abilities and in how to communicate with colleagues and customers. It also opens the door to meeting new people and receive top-class training.  

Robert's biggest piece of advice? ‘Believe in yourself.’  

Why Scot Agri  

For Robert, Scot Agri offers a supportive environment where people want to share their knowledge. ‘It’s a great company to work for,’ he says. ‘Having the right people around who are willing to pass on their skills makes a huge difference.’  

Robert’s journey from apprentice to Service Supervisor really shows how hands-on experience and the right support can turn an interest into a successful career. At Scot Agri, we’re proud to support apprentices in building their skills and growing into confident engineers and leaders in the agricultural industry. Applications for our next intake are now open. Visit the careers section of our website to apply and start your journey today!