A third group of Royal Engineers from 26 Engineer Regiment have recently completed trade and project management focused work placements with BJF Group.
Following the success of two previous placement schemes led by BJF Group alongside our client VIVO Defence Services, six more Royal Engineers have undertaken industry work placements to gain valuable real-world experience in their respective trades.
Whilst most are trade qualified, as an Armoured Regiment, 26 Royal Engineers are unlikely to get the opportunity to utilise their trade skills in a live commercial setting whilst serving other than where required on deployment. As such, these placement schemes are useful not only for those looking for a civilian career post-Army, but also to refresh and improve their skill sets for challenges which may be encountered on deployments.
This time around we broadened the scope of the placements so that they were not solely trade focused with a number of the Engineers also being involved with contract and facilities management activities. This gave them a well-rounded experience and allowed those with project management aspirations to appreciate the end-to-end process of how works are scheduled and managed, not just how their trade operates in isolation.
At a briefing session held at Swinton Barracks the 6 Royal Engineers, made up of 3 Sappers and 3 Lance Corporals, the engineers spoke of the positive experiences they had during their time on their respective work placements with LCpl Martinson saying:
“These placements have given us the opportunity to reduce the inevitable skill fade which occurs following basic training.
By taking part I have refreshed my trade skills as a building and structural finisher, and this has made me more ready for deployment.
The knowledge I have gained by working alongside skilled, experienced engineers has given me the ability to be more independent and confident in my trade.
I would 100% recommend these placements to others and would do it again if I had the opportunity in the future.”
Staff Sergeant Purchase, 26 Engineer Regiment Apprenticeship Manager added:
“As the Apprenticeship Manager for the Regiment, I see the value in upskilling and providing Service Personnel with the opportunity to conduct construction related trade work experience.
It benefits the Corps of the Royal Engineers and the individuals with relevant, up to date construction knowledge and skills making for a better Defence Infrastructure support capability. ”
As an Armed Forces Covenant Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Award holder, BJF Group is proud to support our Armed Forces in many ways, including these work placements. We are dedicated to providing opportunities for those looking to transition out of the Forces and have a careers page specifically for Armed Forces Careers here.
