Employers that recognise the skills, work ethic and training ex-military personnel bring to their workforces will sign special covenants to support more this week at the region’s energy industry flagship event.
Companies working in the oil, gas and renewables industries across the East of England are increasingly bridging their skills gaps with people leaving the armed forces.
This week they will promise to continue to employ people leaving the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force (RAF) by signing the Armed Forces Corporate Covenant at the East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) two-day event focused on the Southern North Sea at the Norfolk Showground, SNS2015.
Former military personnel are renowned for their transferable skills, particularly in engineering, and their strong work ethic.
The energy industry is the first choice second career for many servicemen and women leaving military bases in the region and wanting to build new lives remaining in the area.
Skills for Energy has been helping service leavers find routes into the industry for many.
Celia Anderson, executive director of EEEGR , said: “ We have established a strong network of ex-military in the energy industry. Employing military is helping address the skills gaps that constrain the industry the most.”
To demonstrate their continued support, companies will sign pledges in Armed Forces Corporate Covenants witnessed by Norfolk’s Armed Forces Commissioner, Tony Tomkinson, and Colonel Gary Wilkinson, commander of Colchester Garrison.
Companies to sign the convenant include Perenco, CLS Offshore, Cooper Lomas, EEEGR, Petans, IVB, AID Industrial, EEEGR, Great Yarmouth College, Lowestoft College, Eastern Edge and Turning Factor.