Scottish Apprenticeship Week: Tyler Buchan, Graduate Apprentice at Space Solutions

At Space Solutions, we recognise that investing in our people is a cornerstone of our success. Apprenticeships allow us to nurture the talent of the future, reinforcing our focus on professional development and creating a sustainable workforce.

Tyler’s recruitment marks our first time partnering with a university to deliver a Graduate Apprenticeship. We have since recruited two more apprentices in partnership with Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen.

Tyler’s apprenticeship experience began in August 2022. After finishing high school, he considered whether a full-time university course was what he wanted to pursue. He first became aware of the possibility of a graduate apprenticeship from a schoolteacher. With further exploration, Tyler recognised this route offered the opportunity to gain valuable, practical work experience alongside a BSc Construction and the Built Environment degree from Heriot-Watt University. This led to Tyler successfully securing an Apprentice Project Manager position at SPACE.

Since joining the team, Tyler has made exceptional progress, becoming a responsible project manager for a variety of projects within his first year. Having been highly praised for his mature attitude and strength of character, Tyler has thrived throughout his transition into the professional world.

We asked Tyler about his apprenticeship experience and highlights within his role so far.

What does your work typically involve?

I primarily work in SPACE’s Design & Build division where I work with clients to help them achieve their vision. This involves working with the business development team, as well as managing the pre- and post-construction stages.

I have had the opportunity to travel around Scotland managing construction projects in locations such as Aberdeen, in addition to working with some exciting local clients in Edinburgh.

While I do work towards the typical academic and work-based requirements for an apprenticeship, I have realised that the experiences I have had so far have allowed me to go beyond what I previously thought would be possible through an apprenticeship.

What has been your biggest achievement?

I was thrilled to receive the responsibility of Project Manager for a major Design and Build project in Edinburgh. I was involved from the beginning concept design stages, all the way through to completion on the site.

My work contributed towards a strong client relationship where future work could become a possibility.

How has this apprenticeship supported your professional development?

My time at SPACE has involved incredibly varied opportunities. For example, undergoing mentoring with colleagues across different departments; travelling across Scotland to work on projects for clients from a variety of sectors; and receiving tailored academic support to ensure I can work successfully towards my university qualification.

The graduate apprenticeship programme is very unique and is something I would definitely encourage others to consider, especially if they are looking to gain real-world professional experience at the same time as working towards an academic qualification.

How do you feel looking towards the future?

While I am thoroughly enjoying my time at SPACE, I can confidently say that I have developed the skillset and gained the experience required to approach other career opportunities in the future.