Industry Insights Programme
Develop your skills, build your network, and get ready for the world of work!
What is the UHI Industry Insights Programme?
UHI's Industry Insights Programme (formerly the employer mentoring programme) is designed to encourage and support 3rd and 4th year degree students and recent graduates as they transition from education to the professional world. The programme connects students and graduates from any discipline with an experienced industry professional to help them navigate and plan for the early stages of their careers.
The programme is run by the UHI Futures team, who review students' applications and carefully match them to a professional working in a relevant field. It runs over 6 months (October to April) with mentoring taking place via e-mail, phone, or video call - whatever suits you and your mentor. This is an easily accessible yet hugely beneficial learning, development, and networking opportunity. You’ll be able to liaise with your mentor on a number of topics and discuss a range of opportunities, boosting your CV and confidence, and resulting in a range of benefits for you now, and into the future!
Who will mentor me?
When you apply, you will be asked to tell us a bit more about your topics of interest, and the type of sector or specialism you’d like your mentor to have experience in. Our longlist of mentors are all passionate about providing you the opportunity to discuss career aspirations, employability prospects and opportunities, their career journey so far, and developments or trends in your selected area of interest.
Discussions with your mentor are to be held at least once a month for the duration. It is expected that communication will be more frequent than this however, and we encourage ongoing discussion to ensure you get the most out of the experience.
Application process
When can I apply?
The 2025-26 programme will open for applications on Monday 8th September 2025. The programme is open to students from any UHI campus and programme who are currently in their 3rd or 4th year of study, and those who have recently graduated following academic year 2024-25.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with the UHI Futures career support team: futures@uhi.ac.uk
What happens after I apply?
Applications will be reviewed, and you will be matched to a mentor depending on your interests and subject area, and depending on the availability of mentors.
You will have to sign a Mentee Confidentiality Doc and there will be a short, but mandatory, student information session held to help you prepare for the programme, and outline what to expect along with how to set some objectives. This will be held during week commencing 20th October.
You will be provided with your mentor’s contact details so that you can get in touch with them to set up your first meeting/discussion. At that point, you should share your objectives with them and tell them a bit about your ambitions. You will then embark on an exciting programme of relationship and knowledge building with your mentor!
Links and Information
If you have any questions, please get in touch with the UHI Futures career support team: futures@uhi.ac.uk