A HIGH profile Scottish Government advisor from Greenock is merging new technology with traditional skills to create future job opportunities for Inverclyde's young people.

Chartered engineer Mick O’Connor grew up in Belville Street and he started out by working as an apprentice welder at the famous Scott Lithgow shipyard.

As his career took off he went on to lead the development of the government's aerospace, defence, marine and security industrial strategy.

Mick is now breaking new ground by establishing an organisation called Inverclyde Makerspace - a project which will blend new technologies with science, technology, engineering and maths and traditional crafts, to create jobs for young people in the area.

The scheme is being supported by Skills Development Scotland, with a steering group which includes Jamie Cooke of the Royal Society of Arts, Bruce Newlands of Inverclyde Shed and Joseph Katter from Next Fab Foundation.

Mick says there is untapped talent in the area and believes the space industry has potential for great development in Inverclyde.

He said: "Glasgow is building more satellites than any city outside the United States.

"Edinburgh is developing rockets and space vehicles, and five Scottish space ports and being developed.

"It may seem inaccessible to residents of Inverclyde but there is a gap within the sector for skilled, motivated employees across a range of skills."

Mick says that greater focus has to be placed on ensuring that there are more opportunities for local youngsters to flourish.

He told the Tele that while the Makerspace initiative has been well-received, more funding is needed and he is appealing to the Inverclyde business community for their support with the venture.

He said: "The young people of Inverclyde deserve better.

"They have hopes, dreams and potential but limited opportunity to realise them."

*To get in touch with Mick email mick@haelo.io