The 24-year-old, an integral part of global insurance firm AXA Insurance’s Commercial Direct team, has been shortlisted in the Modern Apprentice of the Year – SCQF Level 6+ category, sponsored by Scottish Chambers of Commerce, in the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.

Ethan quickly mastered complex telephony systems and used his technical expertise and strong problem-solving skills to redesign training materials and confidently lead colleagues through major system changes.

Ethan, from Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, played a pivotal role in testing the platform, reshaping training materials, delivering training sessions and offering post-launch support - ensuring a seamless transition to the new system and minimal disruption.

He embraced further opportunities to grow beyond his role by volunteering to support the No Claims Discount process and customer Livechat queries, proactively calling dissatisfied customers to resolve their issues.

And he also pushed himself to achieve his Chartered Insurance Institute Certificate in record time.

Ethan completed his Modern Apprenticeship in Providing Financial Services last year and is now working towards a Diploma.

He explained: “The Modern Apprenticeship was a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience, study for professional qualifications and build credibility in a sector I was keen to join.

“As a Modern Apprentice you are uniquely placed to challenge processes and there are fantastic opportunities to get involved with different projects.”

Ethan completed an HND in Financial Services after high school but decided that university was not the right path for him.

Being able to earn at the same time as learning has boosted his financial independence and he is saving a deposit for his own home.

He added: “Modern Apprenticeships show that you can work in fast-paced environment and still make time to study, learn and progress your own career.

“I enjoy mentoring other apprentices to ensure they have the same opportunities.”

Ethan attended regular online webinars with learning provider BPP Education Group throughout his apprenticeship, as well as submitting coursework.

He has built a strong professional network through careers fairs, Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) events and apprenticeship forums.

His journey shows how Modern Apprenticeships are working for Scotland, creating highly capable, motivated professionals who deliver real value for business and inspire others. Developed with employers to meet workforce demand, they are jobs open to anyone aged 16 and over who wants to work, learn and earn.

AXA Insurance Development and Capability Manager Lynn Marsh said: “Modern Apprenticeships enable us to develop a skilled and competent workforce that works for our business and for Scotland.

“Ethan is ambitious, dedicated and an absolute superstar. He constantly looking for ways to challenge himself, volunteers for extra responsibilities and supports his peers and colleagues to do well too.”

The Scottish Apprenticeship Awards in association with SP Energy Networks, celebrates apprentices, employers and learning providers from across the country and a wide range of sectors.

Award categories recognise the achievements of Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprentices, as well as the organisations who champion and support apprenticeships.

The awards, organised by Skills Development Scotland, will be held at a ceremony taking place in Glasgow on 26 February, when category winners will be announced before the overall winner is named Scotland’s Apprentice of the Year.

Minister for Higher and Further Education, Ben Macpherson said: “Scottish Apprenticeships are excellent opportunities for young people, offering sustainable and rewarding employment.

“Congratulations to all Scottish Apprenticeship Awards finalists – career journeys that are fantastic examples of the positive impact apprenticeships have on people, business and society.”

The Scottish Apprenticeship Awards will help to launch Scottish Apprenticeship Week from 2 to 6 March. For more information about the awards and apprenticeships, visit apprenticeships.scot.