POD CAST ABOUT EVOLVE
Linda Barclay is the Managing Director of Evolve Training, a family-owned training provider based in Dyce, Aberdeen. For over 33 years, the company has helped organisations across the energy, construction, manufacturing, utilities, marine, transport and public sectors improve workplace competence, reduce risk and create safer working environments.
Her experience spans operational leadership, training delivery, first aid and business development, giving her a practical understanding of the challenges employers face when developing a skilled and safety-conscious workforce.
In This Episode
You’ll discover:
- How Evolve Training was founded and the vision behind the business.
- How the company grew from a small family operation into one of Scotland’s largest independent training centres.
- Linda’s journey to becoming Managing Director.
- Why practical, face-to-face training remains essential in high-risk industries.
- The biggest mistakes businesses make when viewing training purely as a compliance exercise.
- How Evolve adapts its training to suit different learners, industries and workplace environments.
- What sets Evolve Training apart in an increasingly competitive market.
- Linda’s vision for the future of workplace training and safety.
Key Takeaways
One of the strongest messages throughout this conversation is that effective workplace training goes far beyond gaining a certificate. Linda explains how quality training develops confidence, practical skills and safe behaviours that remain with delegates long after the course has finished.
The discussion also highlights the importance of building long-term relationships with customers. Evolve Training has earned its reputation through consistent service, experienced instructors and a genuine commitment to helping organisations create safer workplaces.
Whether you’re responsible for health and safety, managing teams or developing employee skills, this episode offers practical insights into choosing training that delivers real value.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
00:45 – How Evolve Training began
03:00 – Growing the family business
04:00 – Linda’s journey to Managing Director
05:00 – Vision for the future
06:00 – Common mistakes businesses make
09:00 – Why face-to-face practical training still matters
13:00 – Training beyond compliance
15:00 – Choosing the right training provider
18:00 – Staying relevant in a changing industry
20:00 – Cost versus quality in workplace training
23:00 – The lasting value of investing in people
24:00 – Where to find Evolve Training
Connect with Linda Barclay
LinkedIn: Linda Barclay
Website: https://www.evolvetraining.com
Final Thoughts
This is an insightful conversation about leadership, workplace safety and building a business founded on trust, expertise and long-term relationships. Linda shares practical advice for employers looking to improve competence, strengthen workplace culture and invest in training that makes a genuine difference.
If you’re responsible for health and safety, workforce development or operational excellence, this episode is well worth listening to.
