Rory MacDonald, Apprentice Pipe Fitter
Rory is an apprentice working in Star Refrigeration’s production facility, building key components for industrial refrigeration systems while studying towards qualifications in fabrication and welding. His apprenticeship has combined structured college training with hands-on factory experience, giving him the confidence to take on more responsibility and develop his skills as a pipe fitter. Rory values the trust he’s been given on the job and sees the apprenticeship as a strong foundation for a long-term career at Star.
What originally made you apply for an apprenticeship in industrial refrigeration and production?
When I left school, I didn’t have a clear plan in place. Star Refrigeration came up as an opportunity and I was invited for an interview, which went really well.
I also completed an aptitude test that I did well in, which gave me confidence. I liked the idea of earning money while learning at the same time and gaining a proper trade.
“I liked the idea of earning while learning and gaining a proper trade.”
Was there a particular job or project during your apprenticeship where you felt especially proud of your contribution?
There have been quite a few units where I’ve been thrown in at the deep end and trusted to contribute as much as I can.
That’s helped me realise I’m capable of more than I thought. I’ve worked on building pump sets, compressors and motors,
as well as oil separators and vessels, and I take pride in making sure everything is built to the best possible standard.
How did the college side of the apprenticeship work, and how did you balance it with hands-on work?
In my first year, I attended EKGTA in East Kilbride from August until the Christmas break, focusing on production training.
This included welding, pipe fitting, fitting and thermal cutting at Level 2. After the winter break, I completed an NC in Engineering Systems
over 20 weeks. I’m now studying towards an HNC in Fabrication and Welding at Motherwell College, which I attend one day a week alongside my work in the factory.
What kind of support have you received during your apprenticeship?
The support has been brilliant. Whenever you ask for help, everyone is willing to show you how things are done.
No one gets frustrated, and you’re encouraged to ask questions. People are easy to talk to, whether it’s about work or anything else,
and there’s always someone there to support you.
“Being trusted to contribute made me realise I’m capable of more than I thought.”
How has the apprenticeship prepared you for becoming a pipe fitter?
Star isn’t afraid to let you try things for yourself. You’re encouraged to step out of your comfort zone, and if something doesn’t go right,
you’re supported to fix it and learn from it. That experience of making mistakes and improving is really valuable and helps you master your trade.
You also gain real workplace experience that you just don’t get from studying alone.
What’s changed for you as you’ve progressed through the apprenticeship, and what does your role look like now?
As I’ve progressed, I’ve taken on more responsibility and feel much more confident in my abilities.
I’m trusted with more complex tasks and have a better understanding of the full production process, rather than just individual jobs.
Looking ahead, where would you like your career to take you at Star?
I’d love to stay at Star long term. If the opportunity came up to move into a more senior role in the future,
I’d definitely evaluate it and consider that path.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in production?
Go for it and give it your all. Apply yourself to every bit of work you’re given.
I kept my head down and worked hard because I saw it as a really good opportunity to build a career and progress.