Rail industry embraces armed forces leavers

The Rail Forum has been helping people leaving the armed forces find a job in the rail industry after holding an event, which introduced them to employers.

Held in association with the Career Transition Partnership, the Military is Good for Rail event, introduced soon-to-be service leavers and veterans to 22 employers within the rail industry.

Recognising the challenge of the growing skills gap and the scarcity of skills in the rail industry, the event provided an opportunity for firms to attract talented individuals with transferable skills into rail.

At the same time, it provided firms a great opportunity to support armed forces members with their transition from military to civilian life, both through individuals who have made that transition into rail from the forces sharing their experience and through opening the door to new careers.

Simon Higgens MBE, vice-chair at the Rail Forum, said: “Military is Good for Rail goes from strength-to-strength.

“I was impressed by the quality and breadth of experience from this year’s cohort of service leavers. We have made connections with several individuals who will hopefully start their second careers with us soon.

“While the military cannot wholly bridge the industry’s skills gap, it can certainly play a major part and provides a rich vein of talent.”

Elaine Clark, chief executive at the Rail Forum, said: “It was brilliant to have so many Rail Forum members supporting this event.

“We wish all the delegates looking for new careers the best of luck in their job hunting and hope that as a result of being introduced to rail and the variety of careers that the industry has to offer, some, if not all, will join the railway.”