Engineering employers from the North West recently met in Manchester to strengthen the already close relationships between industry and the Armed Forces.
The annual Tri-Service engineering dinner at Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Stadium was hosted by two of the North West’s Army Reserve engineering units; 75 Engr Regt and 101 Bn REME. The units are the only providers of Army civil and mechanical engineering training in the region. Engineering employers, government organisations and higher education providers enjoyed first class hospitality at the event, where ideas, best practice and a pleasant meal were shared.
Lt Col Al Mason, CO 75 Engr Regt
Lt Col Mason RE and Lt Col Harris REME spoke at the event about the benefits of employing Reservists in a modern organisation, along with the personal development opportunities available today as part of the Army Reserve. Guests heard about the Access to Engineering partnerships on offer as well as details of the Armed Forces Community Covenant and how their companies can make the most of the Reserve offer.
With continued technical investment in the North West, the region is set to become a powerhouse of engineering over the next decade. The opportunities presented with the concurrent growth of the Army Reserve will bring the benefits of new, young engineers to industry, engineers who remain calm under pressure and are trained to know what is expected of them in even the most demanding conditions.
The Army Reserve offers unrivalled opportunities for any 18-50 year old, with an engineering background or otherwise, to do military training for two weekends a month and get paid for their time. Those who take part are usually looking for a greater challenge in their spare time, working to enhance their leadership and management skills and enjoy socialising with likeminded people. Experiencing some of the best training environments in the world, as well as working with modern technology and often gaining experience that would otherwise take years to build in a civilian role, Army Reservists are expected to step up to those challenges faced both in work time and their spare time.
Access to Engineering is a partnership between the REME Reserve, local engineering employers and higher education. Young potential engineers are employed in full time traineeship where they learn accredited skills whilst also training as an Army Reserve soldier. Following the traineeship, engineers are employed by partnered employers often going straight into leading apprenticeship schemes or full time employment.
The evening concluded with the Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire, Mr David Briggs MBE KstJ, speaking passionately of the work of the Reserves both for Defence and the wider community; from maintaining flood defences to protecting the nation in times of crisis. Closer integration with businesses and the military in the future will mean partnerships which are beneficial to all.
For further information regarding employing members of the Army Reserve, or taking on the challenge yourself, search ‘Army Jobs’ or call: 75 Engr Recruiting 01925 642839 or 101 Bn REME Recruiting 01978316855
