Darren Cadger’s story is proof that career paths aren’t always linear—and that sometimes, figuring out what isn’t the right fit is just as important as discovering what is. We sat down with Darren, RGU alumnus and founder of Arch 35 Marketing, to talk about his unconventional route from trades to entrepreneurship, his time abroad, and why he’s passionate about supporting the next generation of talent.
Let’s start at the beginning: what was life like after school for you?
I was born in Limerick, Ireland and grew up in Peterhead, and when I left school, I didn’t get the standard grades I was hoping for. So, like a lot of people in the area, I started an apprenticeship—first as a machinist. But it didn’t click for me. Then I tried a second apprenticeship as an electrician, and I quickly realised I wasn’t great with my hands either!
What made you consider college?
After trying both apprenticeships, I knew I needed to look at other options. I made some enquiries about college and ended up starting an NC in Business. I liked that the course gave me flexibility and opened doors I hadn’t considered before. That led me to an HND in Business and a 2+2 programme with RGU studying International Business Management.
You had the option to go straight into third year – why didn’t you?
The second year of the course included an opportunity to study abroad for six months and do a one-year work placement. That experience was way too valuable to pass up.
Where did you go for your study abroad and placement?
I went to Hannover in Germany for six months, which was a fantastic experience. After that, I returned to do a placement at Aker Solutions. Unfortunately, it was cut short due to the pandemic. My final year of study—my fourth year—was fully online because of COVID.
You graduated in 2021 with a degree in International Business Management. What came next?
After graduating, I decided to stay on and complete a master’s in International Marketing, which I finished in 2022. During the master’s programme, I did a four-week placement at Escone Solutions. They ended up hiring me as a Business Analyst, and I stayed there for three and a half years.
How did Arch 35 Marketing come to be?
While I was at Escone, I pitched an idea for a marketing company to the founders. They were really supportive—and with their backing, I launched Arch 35 Marketing in February this year.
What’s the vision behind Arch 35?
I’m really passionate about giving students real-world experience, just like I had. I’ve already taken on a placement student from RGU, and I hope to continue building those connections. This year, my focus is to take my entrepreneurship adventure further and to firmly establish the business in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
You’re currently on the Help to Grow: Management course – what’s that been like?
It’s been a great resource for developing my leadership and business strategy skills. The course through RGU has really helped me think bigger and more sustainably about Arch 35.
Looking back, how do you feel about your journey so far?
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster, but I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I could be an unhappy engineer right now—but every twist and turn has brought me to where I’m meant to be: running my own company and doing something I genuinely care about.
Darren’s journey is a reminder that success isn’t always about getting it right the first time—it’s about staying open to new paths and believing in where they might lead.
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