Barratt Homes’ Armed Forces Transition Programme is helping to create careers in construction for veterans across Nottinghamshire
The programme provides a valuable opportunity for ex-service people to transition into the construction industry, allowing them to find new career paths. Participants in the scheme are given experience, training, and support, enabling them to embark on careers in site management.
Ex-serviceman James Fowler, aged 40, is now a crucial part of Barratt Homes’ Stonebridge Fields development in Mansfield. Fowler joined the British Army in 1999 as an Infantry Soldier and later served with the Worcestershire and Sherwood Forester Regiment.
After a brief stint in construction, he re-enlisted in 2008, this time joining the Royal Corps of Signals. During his military career, Fowler was stationed in multiple locations, including London, Afghanistan, Kenya, Botswana, Belize, and Canada, earning eight medals.
New skills can lead to long-term careers in construction for veterans
Fowler joined Barratt Homes in August 2022 and has seen many of the benefits that the industry offers. Through the programme, he has acquired new skills that contribute to his future career in the construction industry.
As a team member, he supports the on-site operations by coordinating trades, ordering materials, and conducting regular health and safety checks. Fowler is responsible for ensuring the maintenance of five-star rated customer service at the development.
In light of the recent Armed Forces Day (24 June), Fowler was keen to highlight how the programme can provide opportunities for a rewarding career in construction for ex-service people who may struggle to find work after their time in the military.
“The Armed Forces Transition Programme is excellent as it gives veterans and soldiers an opportunity to break into the construction industry, utilising the skills they have gained from the military,” he said.
“The programme also provides the relevant training and support to allow ex-servicemen and women to gain industry-recognised qualifications,” added Fowler.
Barrat Homes is a keen supporter of the armed forces
In a further move to support military servicemen and women, Barrat Homes run an initiative that offers a 5% deposit contribution, with a maximum amount of £15,000, to all military service people. The programme is open to all current UK Armed Forces personnel employed by the Army, Navy, or RAF.
“Barratt Homes is an excellent choice for ex-servicemen and women. The training is second to none, and it allows you to bring across skills you have gained from the military and to adapt them to suit a role within the construction industry,” commented Fowler.
“Do not be afraid to fail, as this gives you the opportunity to learn from your mistakes. Don’t think you will be expected to know everything to do with construction and the building process of residential dwellings. It takes time and support of the training and guidance from more seasoned members within the company,” he concluded.
