Ellis Stevenson’s SkillELECTRIC journey: resilience, growth, and a passion for the trade

When apprentice electrician Ellis Stevenson first considered her career options, she wanted something practical, challenging, and future-proof. Electrical work ticked all the boxes. Inspired by her cousin and an interest in hands-on problem-solving, Ellis took her first steps into the trade. Today, that determination has earned her a place in the SkillELECTRIC 2025 final.
 

A longstanding interest

Ellis’s interest in electrics started early. “I just fancied it really,” she says. “I’ve always been practical, my mum says I was always ripping toys apart and putting them back together. I liked problem-solving, and I knew the electrical industry would be an interesting challenge for me.”

Her proactive attitude was clear from the start. During COVID, when work experience placements were more difficult to come by, Ellis organised her own. “I sent my CV to multiple companies, but Campbell and McHardy were the only ones willing to take me on. I’ll always be grateful for that.” That initiative paid off and Ellis established herself as a valued member of the team.
 

The SkillELECTRIC challenge

Ellis’s journey to the finals wasn’t straightforward. “I attempted SkillELECTRIC last year but didn’t make it through,” she explains. “I thought that was it but my college lecturer encouraged me to try again. This time, I knew what to expect and worked hard on time management and technical skills.”

Her preparation has been intense. “I’ve been practising most nights with my lecturer, he’s even set up a booth for me to work on which has helped massively.”

The competition has tested Ellis’s ability to stay calm under pressure. “You don’t get the measurements until the day, so I know I’ll have to think fast and keep focused.”
 

Employer perspective

Ian Campbell, Director at NICEIC-certified Campbell and McHardy, a Moray based electrical contractor, has seen the impact first-hand: “Competitions like SkillELECTRIC give apprentices confidence and responsibility quicker than usual. Ellis has grown massively; she’s now running jobs herself and making decisions on-site. That independence is invaluable both for us as a business and for Ellis as she continues to develop.”

Ian adds: “We’ve always invested in apprentices, 95% of our team trained here. It’s good for the industry and good for us. When apprentices succeed, it reflects well on the company.”
 

Beyond the competition

Ellis’s experience has already translated into her work. “Some tasks in the competition, like metalwork, aren’t things we do every day. It’s given me extra skills I can bring to the job.”

She’s also noticed a shift in responsibility. “I’ve been trusted with more complex tasks since competing and it shows the company knows I’m committed and capable.”
 

Looking ahead

As the electrical industry evolves with new technologies and sustainability demands, Ellis is ready to embrace the challenge. “SkillELECTRIC has been amazing, you learn so much and meet so many people. It’s nerve-wracking, but it’s definitely worth it.”