The transition to a net-zero future is not merely an environmental imperative - it is likely to be the most significant economic development opportunity that Scotland will see this century.

We often think of Aberdeen as the epicentre of energy, and it will be a central player, but the opportunity is actually Scotland-wide, and is particularly clear in the Highlands of Scotland. The region is at the heart of Scotland's renewable energy ambitions, with major developments like those at Nigg Bay and Ardersier representing world-class investment.

Having attended the recent launch of the Highland Renewables network (covered extensively in The Herald), the ambition amongst green energy developers, business leaders and policymakers was as clear as the consensus that the Highlands are uniquely positioned to lead the change.

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However, with this opportunity comes a critical challenge. Without a skilled workforce, there is a real risk that the maximum benefits of this transition will pass us by, and there is already meaningful and tangible evidence that we have a problem. I’d encompass the problem as this: you can’t dream of a job that you don’t know exists.

We are simply not doing enough to ensure that tomorrow’s workers - and, crucially, their parents -........

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