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11 April 2023
An M&E services provider is calling for ex-Armed Forces personnel to consider a career in the commercial heating sector.
Lord Combustion Services wants to encourage ex-Forces employees to consider careers in the industry as the energy price crisis puts the sector in the national spotlight.
Managing Director Stuart Smith said: “We understand the vital work which military personnel have done for their country and recognise the tremendous skills they offer when they leave uniform to continue their working careers. With the national focus on energy, there are strong employment opportunities in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning industry for Armed Forces colleagues.
“We want to hear from anyone looking to use their Armed Forces skills to get into work in a well-paid, varied role, where they will be given the backing to develop and succeed.”
Skills Shortage in Commercial Heating Sector
Research from the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations shows that for manufacturers, suppliers and installers in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning sector, difficulties in the labour market are the main issue affecting their business. Additionally, if the government is to achieve its goal of installing 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028, the workforce of skilled installers must also increase.
The ex-military community in the UK is considered a valuable recruitment resource, due to their skills in leadership, teamwork, logistics, and well as more specific technical skills. Many companies make use of this by running veteran employment support programmes to help recruit in this area. Organisations such as JobOppO work specifically with veterans to connect them with suitable employers who appreciate the benefit of employing ex-Forces personnel.
Lord Combustion Services received its Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award from the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (West Midland RFCA) in September 2022. Having first received the award in 2017 Lord had it revalidated for continued commitment. Award holders must demonstrate recruitment and employment policies which actively support members of the Armed Forces community.
Graham Whitehouse, Regional Employer Engagement Director, West Midland RFCA said: “Having worked closely with Lord Combustion Services over a number of years, we know of the commitment that they show on a daily basis, and applaud their continued and sustained commitment to supporting our Armed Forces community.”
Lord Combustion Services is based in Oldbury, and serves more than 1,000 customers across the West Midlands including NHS sites, schools and Edgbaston cricket ground.
Picture: a photograph of Lord Combustion Services Director Mark Chapman holding the company's framed Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award. Image Credit: Lord Combustion Services
Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 11 April 2023
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