A FORMER Beath High School pupil with ambitions to work in Formula One has been given a head start by CR Smith.

Ebony Keatings, 18, is steering towards life in the fast lane as an engineer in the motor racing world and the home improvements firm are helping her on her way.

She was one of seven new recruits to CR Smith's manufacturing plant in Cowdenbeath who all joined the company in the summer through cross-industry jobs initiatives that support people into work.

Colin Bain, head of manufacturing, said: “Helping people, whether unemployed or just out of school, into work is something we are deeply committed to.

"If we can introduce them to a career in manufacturing, we also know that we can support our own company development and aspirations, so these programmes are very important.

“These two initiatives have been very successful, not least because those taking part are determined to work."

In partnership with DWP Fife, Kingdom Works and Fife College, CR Smith helped to create a new manufacturing skills academy and work experience programme, introducing people to roles in despatch, warehousing and production.

The collaboration proved a big success with six securing jobs in the fabrication and machine shop at the end of the programme.

Ebony is one of those joining the machine shop.

At Beath High, she focused on practical skills, completing a Higher in Design and Manufacturing and National 5 qualifications in woodwork and metalwork, so the job with CR Smith plays to all her strengths.

While still at school, Ebony was mentored by manufacturing director Colin Eadie through the Career Ready programme and in the summer of 2021, she was given a four-week work placement, including three weeks at the factory.

With his support, it gave her a “massive confidence boost” just when she needed it. Her supervisor in the machine shop said she picked up the job very quickly so when a permanent position became available, Ebony was everyone’s first choice.

Mr Bain added: "The individuals in the skills academy showed their willingness to learn and showed great initiative, while Ebony is full of determination and has a tremendous work ethic.

"I’m delighted that they have now joined us and know that they are welcomed and supported by everyone at CR Smith.”

While a role at CR Smith was not the intention at the start, both Ebony and her mentor are delighted that she is embarking on a career in engineering.

Mr Eadie said: "Ebony is really enjoying the opportunity to work where she can develop practical skills and has had no problem fitting in, even if getting up at 6am has been a bit of a struggle at times!

"She’s also ambitious: CR Smith she says is the first step on her journey to becoming a 3D designer within Formula One. From the number one marque in windows to Ferrari, perhaps."