Around 300 pupils from S1 to S6 took part in a special careers event at Portree High School on Thursday, October 9, organised in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) West Highland and Salmon Scotland.
The day brought together employers and training providers including Mowi Scotland, Bakkafrost, AKVA Group Scotland and Ferguson Transport.
Other participants included the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), Lantra, the Roslin Institute, and the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS).
Pupils got involved in a mix of hands-on sessions showing how classroom subjects link to real jobs in aquaculture, technology and the marine environment.
Bakkafrost ran a live fish-feeding demonstration, while Mowi Scotland’s salmon wagon served BBQ salmon sliders and noodle salads. At the company’s “Salmon on Ice” stand, pupils learned how to check the health of fish.
At the Roslin Institute’s “Fishy Forensics”, pupils used microscopes to study salmon tissues, learning how biology and veterinary science play a role in keeping fish healthy.
Scientists from SAMS spoke about their work to protect marine life around Skye, including trials using weighted creel lines to help keep whales, dolphins and seals safe.
Students also explored aquaculture technology with AKVA Group Scotland, testing underwater cameras, control boxes and robotics equipment, while Lantra, Ferguson Transport and UHI ran practical challenges focusing on teamwork, engineering and marine skills.
The event was part of Salmon Scotland’s ongoing schools programme, which helps young people discover opportunities across the blue economy and encourages more to consider careers in coastal areas.
Around 12,500 people across Scotland depend on the sector, including 565 directly employed in the Highlands, where local farms are at the heart of their communities.
Similar sessions are planned across the Highlands and islands as Salmon Scotland continues working with schools and employers to inspire the next generation.
The sector is recruiting at all levels, from school-leavers and graduates to people already in the sector or moving from industries such as oil and gas, to meet growing demand for Scottish salmon.
Tony Breen, headteacher at Portree High School, said:
“Here on the Isle of Skye, we have a number of industries that are essential for the local community, including hospitality, engineering and aquaculture.
“We were able to introduce the range of opportunities that the aquaculture industry can provide.
“From hands-on experience in sustainable seafood production to pathways into marine science and engineering, aquaculture empowers our students to stay rooted in their community while building skills that reach far beyond our shores.
“We are grateful to all the businesses and individuals who were able to work with our young people today to give them an insight into this industry.
“As head teacher, I’ve seen firsthand how the aquaculture industry is transforming opportunities for our young people here on the Isle of Skye.
“It’s not just about employment — it’s about education, innovation, and pride in our island’s future.
“Through partnerships with local aquaculture firms, our students gain access to cutting-edge marine technology, sustainable farming practices, and real-world career pathways that allow them to thrive without leaving their community.
“The aquaculture industry is one option in supporting our young people into positive destinations — it offers them more than just a job by providing career progression and a future.”
Claudia Pech, school co-ordinator at DYW West Highland, said:
“Thursday’s aquaculture careers event was a fantastic opportunity for young people to explore the wide range of exciting careers available in the sector.
“The event was a great success thanks to the collaboration between DYW West Highland, Portree High School and Salmon Scotland, showcasing how partnership working can help inspire the next generation of talent for our local communities.”
Alison MacPhee, HR business partner at Bakkafrost, said:
“Events like these are vital for the aquaculture industry and local communities to showcase the abundance of career opportunities available for young people. We were delighted to discuss our diverse and varied roles across the entire value chain and show the young people our salmon being fed through our live feed stream.”
Kyle Davidson, service development manager at AKVA Group Scotland, said:
“Events like this are a fantastic way to inspire the next generation and showcase the diverse career paths within aquaculture.
“Our AKVA Observe AI software in particular sparked a lot of curiosity — it’s a great example of how innovation and digital tools are helping to make the industry smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable.”
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said:
“Scotland’s salmon sector plays a vital role in sustaining jobs and supporting communities across the Highlands and islands.
“It’s great to see so many young people on Skye discovering the variety of careers linked to salmon farming, from environmental science and animal care to engineering, technology and food production.
“We’re very thankful to Portree High School and everyone who helped make the event such a success, and we hope it has inspired pupils to think about the opportunities available close to home.”