New initiative launches to enable the skills migration from the Armed Forces to ‘Renewable careers’
In support of the British Energy Security Strategy, a government linked initiative seeks to supercharge the successful growth of the renewable energy industry by harnessing the human potential of our service community
Offshore Wind, the focus of the first Veteran-focused networking event as Mission Renewable launches to an audience of Industry, Service Leavers, MOD and Charities
Veterans representing companies in the renewable energy sector meet hundreds of service leavers, veterans and spouses at the National Transition Event
Chaired by Lt General (retd) Richard Nugee CB CVO CBE, MoD’s Non Executive Director for Climate Change and Sustainability, Mission Renewable, the Armed Forces Engagement programme for the Renewable Sector, publicly launches at the National Transition Event on the 24th of March. The non-profit Community Interest Company was formed in 2021 to harness the opportunity for skills migration from the veteran community whilst addressing the transitional needs of service leavers, and has been supported by Renewable UK and the Offshore Wind Industry Council.
Aiming to make the renewable industry a destination of choice for service leavers, veterans and military spouses, Mission Renewable is bringing together veterans currently employed within the sector to highlight the plethora of job opportunities open to them as attendees seek new careers after military service. The initiative is working with RenewableUK, the industry trade association, to re-write the Renewable Sector Guide for the Career Transition Partnership, a key document given to Service leavers (from all three services) to better inform and help them understand the industry.
As well as promoting the renewable energy industry to an underutilised, highly skilled workforce, Mission Renewable is working with MoD to enable and help unlock government resettlement funding and create supported career pathways into new ‘green’ careers for service leavers and their families.
Held at The Wing Conference Centre, Silverstone, and centred on helping those who have left or are leaving the forces to successfully transition, the National Transition Event will play host to over 70 companies as well as charities, government agencies and representatives from MOD. Hundreds of service leavers are scheduled to attend the event, which will also host Armed Forces Covenant signings.
Speaking about the event, James Cameron, CEO of Mission Renewable said, “Leaving the forces can be a daunting time for everybody. The National Transition Event is primarily about helping those who are leaving the forces, as well as veterans and military spouses to make a successful transition from the military to civvy street. By inviting companies who already employ veterans, it is a chance for many to network - make connections with those who understand the process of transition, get advice, guidance and support as well as get a better understanding of employment opportunities. Attendees will come away with a better understanding of the opportunities that await them and feel empowered to start their next journey.”
RenewableUK’s Deputy Chief Executive Melanie Onn said “It’s great to see events like this taking place which put people who’ve served in the armed forces in touch face to face with other former military personnel who are already working in our sector where their knowledge and skills are highly prized. It helps to provide a clear path for anyone wanting a new career in renewable energy, which is exactly what RenewableUK and the Offshore Wind Industry Council are focussing on as a core priority. The number of jobs in the offshore wind industry alone is set to rise by over 40,000 in the next four years alone; this includes a range of team leadership roles and opportunities for people to use their valuable experience to learn new skills, so we’re urging women and men with a military background to join us to build the energy system of the future. This will help us to reduce consumers bills faster while taking practical action against climate change”.
Attendance for both attendees and companies wishing to attend is completely free. For those wishing to find out more, please visit www.nationaltransitionevent.com