Tom Roberts served in the Royal Engineers for 8-years completing his military career in 2022 as Lance Corporal. Tom was a Junior NCO in the SQMS (Squadron Quartermaster’s).
Tom feels the key transferable skills which have helped him in his new role include “Having the confidence to lead and give direction to others. With an understanding of the importance of clear and concise communication, at all levels, aids the success of tasks and activities on site. The ability I honed at problem solving, thinking on my feet, responding under pressure, is daily life in the military. We work hard, have a positive outlook and results come from that.”
With the support and mentoring from BuildForce, Tom secured his new role as a Trainee Section Foreman for Balfour Beatty Vinci on Europe’s largest construction project, HS2. His new career is varied and interesting, Tom describes it as: “Supervising the wider construction site, making sure staff are managing their time effectively and checking everyone is working safely on site, this is a priority. Problem solving to make sure things within my remit are running smoothly I particularly enjoy.”
One of the greatest challenges Tom faced during his transition was attaining the necessary qualifications, whilst in active military service. Tom would like to see more time given to focus on resettlement, than just graduated resettlement time, perhaps opportunities to gain work experience in different areas before leaving the army.
“As an organisation BuildForce partner with lots of different construction companies, there is a wealth of work experience they can assist with.” The network BuildForce provides helped Tom find his new career path.
Tom’s advice to those leaving the armed forces is “Looking to explore a career in construction would be to trust BuildForce and the support they are able to give. Make use of all the partnerships they have, and the focus they can bring during your resettlement. Above all be confident in your abilities”.
Finally, Tom would describe a career in the construction industry as “Challenging – where no two days are the same. Exciting – there is always scope to make things better on site and also rewarding – knowing you are part of something bigger”.