Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East will celebrate outstanding achievements across education, business and young people at the DYW North East Connect Event & Awards, taking place on Thursday 18 June at Ardoe House Hotel.
The awards recognise the individuals, educators and employers who are making a significant impact in supporting the future workforce across the North East of Scotland.
Skills Development Scotland has been announced as the event's principal sponsor. Skills Development Scotland is the national skills body supporting the people and businesses of Scotland to develop and apply their skills. DYW North East is delighted to have its valued support for the 2026 event.
The event will be centred around the theme “Learn, Celebrate, Collaborate”, bringing together partners from across the region. The programme will include a series of panel discussions, a networking lunch and a celebratory awards ceremony recognising the outstanding contributions of young people, employers and education partners.
Jamie Hutcheon, Director of DYW North East, said: “The DYW North East Connect Event and Awards are about recognising the people, employers and partners who go above and beyond to create real opportunities for young people across our region.
“The standard of finalists for our inaugural awards has been exceptional and reflects the strength of collaboration between education and industry in the North East. We were delighted to receive 70 applications, with 16 judges involved in the selection process.
“I would like to thank our sponsors and supporters for their commitment to the event. In particular, Skills Development Scotland as our principal sponsor, AXV Audio Visual as our silver sponsor, and our associated sponsors and supporters: Flexistore Aberdeen, Mackies of Scotland, Odfjell Technology and Harbour Energy. Anything HR, Balfour Beatty, Legends Global at P&J Live and Motive Offshore Group as our category sponsors”
Award Categories and Finalists
Employer Champion Award, Sponsored by Motive Offshore Group
This award is for the industry representative or organisation that goes above and beyond to make their sector and the roles within it accessible to young people.
Finalists
- Bon Accord Care
- Robertson Construction Eastern
- W M Donald Ltd
Excellence in Education Award, Sponsored by Balfour Beatty
This award is for the educator, group or education collective that demonstrates best practice, and goes above and beyond to create opportunities to inspire young people about the world of work
Finalists
- Ali Hynd, Aberdeenshire Council
- Bucksburn Academy S3 Pathways Team
- River Dee Trust
Inspiring Young Person Award, Sponsored by Anything HR
This awards is for an individual aged 16-24 who demonstrates a strong, early commitment to developing their skills, and acting as a role model for their peers, organisation or industry sector.
Finalists
- Abbie Duffus
- Annie Buchan
- Liam Godsman
Partnership Impact Award, Sponsored by Legends Global at P&J Live
This award is for an employer-education project, initiative or collaboration that places skills development and career readiness at the heart of its activities.
Finalists
- Chris Carter, Peterson Freight Management
- Robertson Construction Eastern & Hazlehead Academy
- VisitAberdeenshire
