A Glasgow Caledonian University Graduate Apprentice has been named 2025 Engineering Graduate Apprentice of the Year at the prestigious Scottish Engineering Awards.
Nairn Moffat, who joined Torishima as a BEng Mechanical Engineering Graduate Apprentice at Level 1 through the University’s Graduate Apprenticeship programme, received the accolade for his outstanding contribution to the development of module design for sub-sea desalination systems.
Nairn said: “I am incredibly proud to have received the Scottish Engineering Graduate Apprentice of the Year award. This recognition means a great deal to me and marks a huge milestone in my journey as a Graduate Apprentice. I’d like to thank Torishima and Glasgow Caledonian University for their support, opportunities, and mentorship throughout my apprenticeship.”
Reflecting on how his studies contributed to the project, Nairn added: “The Engineering Design and Analysis modules were crucial, covering everything from basic stress design principles to complex vibration analysis. Manufacturing and Materials modules helped guide critical material selection, and the Integrated Engineering Studies modules really enhanced my technical report writing.”
Nairn’s award recognises both his academic and professional achievements during his time at Glasgow Caledonian, as well as the significant impact of his work within Torishima.
Barry Mowat, Engineering Director at Torishima, praised Nairn’s performance: “In the past 18 months, we’ve seen a marked improvement in the level of work performed by Nairn. We tasked him with designing a sub-sea pumping module − rated at 1.4MW and over 40 tonnes − that must operate submersed in seawater for more than seven years. A challenge for any engineering graduate. Nairn rose to it with impressive aptitude and professionalism, adapting quickly, meeting deadlines and aligning with both client and international standards.”
Dr Andrew Cowell, Department of Mechanical Engineering at Glasgow Caledonian, said: “This honour highlights the strength and real-world impact of Glasgow Caledonian’s Graduate Apprenticeship programmes, which enable students to gain hands-on experience while earning a degree – blending academic excellence with industry application.”