Marius Visniakovas
Engineering
HNC Electrical Engineering
“I’ve gone from student to skilled technician in a cutting-edge industry and I’m just getting started.”
Adult returner Marius came to NESCol to study electrical engineering and now enjoys a successful career in the subsea industry.
40-year-old Marius Visniakovas was inspired to pursue engineering after securing a construction placement in Canada, where he had the opportunity to work with electricians. On his return to Aberdeen in 2019, Marius applied to NESCol.
He said, “I had a deep interest in how electrical systems operate and a desire to build a technical career.
“When I was deciding where to continue my electrical engineering training, NESCol stood out for several reasons. I wanted a place that offered a strong balance between theory and practical learning, and NESCol’s courses perfectly matched that. I knew learning from books wouldn’t be enough. I needed real-world experience to be confident and ready for the industry.
“Another big factor was the apprenticeship pathway, which would allow me to earn while I learn. Being able to apply what I was studying on actual projects in a real work environment was really important to me.
“NESCol also has a reputation for quality teaching and support. I’d heard great things about the staff who are not only experts in their field, but also genuinely invested in helping students succeed. That kind of mentorship was exactly what I wanted.”
Electrical engineering at NESCol
Marius first completed the SVQ Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations (PEO) – Electrical Route course at Altens Campus. He then studied NC Electrical Engineering at both SCQF Level 5 and Level 6.
He said, “My initial studies gave me a solid grounding in core electrical principles, safety procedures, and practical skills.
“From day one, I was hooked. I enjoyed learning how theory connected with real-world systems and how engineers make a difference through their work.”
As his confidence and knowledge grew, Marius was able to progress to HNC Electrical Engineering.
He said, “This was a big milestone, allowing me to dive deeper into areas like electrical theory and circuits, three-phase systems, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
“The HNC qualification strengthened my technical understanding and introduced me to critical thinking and problem-solving – essential skills for the engineering industry.”
Marius praised the facilities and support he received while he was at NESCol.
He said, “The support from all my lecturers was amazing, but Bryan Fraser really stood out. He was my mentor and helped me a lot. I knew he always had time to guide me and share real world tips.
“The College has well-equipped workshops and up-to-date equipment, which made learning both effective and enjoyable.”
Modern Apprenticeship
During his HNC, Marius secured a position as a Cable Technician at CRE, a subsea company that designs and manufactures underwater electrical and fibre optic products.
Shortly after joining, he was offered the exciting opportunity to undertake a Modern Apprenticeship in Electrical Engineering Maintenance and Testing, in partnership with NESCol.
Marius said, “The apprenticeship was a unique experience because all my practical training and assessments were completed within the company. It gave me hands-on industry experience while continuing my academic development.”
Modern Apprenticeships typically take up to four years to complete, but Marius completed his in just two!
He said, “Everyone always asks how I managed to fast-track my apprenticeship. It was a challenging period. I spent many hours studying at home, committed to balancing full-time work, education, and family life.”
“It taught me resilience, discipline and perseverance, and I am proud of what I accomplished. I pushed myself, but I could never have done it without my wife and children. They motivated me every step of the way, reminding me why I started and giving me the strength to keep going, even through the toughest moments.
“Along with the encouragement of my friends, wider family, work colleagues and College, particularly Bryan Fraser, their belief in me made all the difference.”
Electrical engineering career
Marius has had an exciting career so far and is currently working as an Electronics Technician at Ashtead Technologies. However, he is soon set to start a new role, having accepted a Survey Technician position at Subsea 7.
He said, “My current role involves engineering, servicing, operating, and troubleshooting subsea survey equipment, including Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). It‘s a demanding and rewarding job where I get to apply everything I‘ve learned.
“All the hard work, long nights of studying, and dedication over the past few years have truly paid off. I’ve gone from student to skilled technician in a cutting-edge industry and I’m just getting started.”
Next steps and advice
Marius’s advice for students looking to get into engineering is to make the most of your time at NESCol.
He said, “Ask questions, even if they’re small, challenge yourself, and don’t be afraid to push yourself. You’ll be surprised at how the skills you learn will open doors!
“Now, with my HNC, Modern Apprenticeship, and hands-on industry experience, I feel confident in my ability to keep growing in the field of electrical and electronic engineering. I’m proud of the path I’ve taken and excited about what lies ahead.
“This journey would not have been possible without the incredible support and guidance I received. A huge thank you to Nigel Forbes and Paddy Mair at CRE, and Bryan Fraser, for their mentorship and encouragement throughout those amazing years. Your belief in me made a lasting impact, and I’ll always be grateful.”
Study engineering at NESCol
Our engineering courses help you build on your problem solving and technical skills, so you’re equipped to tackle practical challenges in the real world.