A GOUROCK Amazon worker is climbing the career ladder thanks to a 'learning at work' initiative.

Paul Hotchkiss from Greenock has worked as a picker at the Faulds Park facility for nearly 13 years.

The 35-year-old is now one of hundreds of Amazon employees across the country taking part in the Career Choice programme, pursuing a diploma in occupational safety and health at Glasgow City College.

He said: "Career Choice is a great opportunity for me.

"It allows me to change my career and go for something that I have always wanted to pursue.

"I have been a picker at Amazon for almost thirteen years but had experience working in health and safety, so I wanted to give it a real go."

The innovative Amazon further education programme was established to encourage employees to pursue qualifications and training in high-demand fields such as engineering, IT, computer science, mechanical and electrical trades, even if that means a career outside of Amazon.

Amazon offers to pre-pay 95 per cent of tuition and associated fees for nationally-recognised courses, up to £8,000 over four years.

Paul added: "I am very grateful that Amazon gives the financial help so that you don’t have to stick to a role for your entire life without trying something new.

"The health and safety team has also been very supportive to me.

"They have given me a helping hand and made me even more excited for the next step in my career."

Gavin Morrison, who is the general manager at Amazon Gourock, says the programme offers fantastic opportunities for employees to progress their careers.

He said: "The Career Choice programme at Amazon is a fantastic initiative that encourages employees to answer their career calling.

"We believe everyone should have the opportunity to expand their skill set and go after their dream career, whether that means at Amazon or elsewhere.

"We look forward to celebrating several graduations at Amazon in Gourock and expect great things from Paul and all of our team studying through Career Choice."