Embracing Change: A Path to New Opportunities
Transitioning to a new career can be a challenge for many, and this may be more daunting for individuals who are moving from the structured environment of the Armed Forces to civilian work settings. However, with our bronze status, we’re committed to supporting the Armed Forces Covenant, as well as nurturing future, current and ex-forces talent.
Stork’s aim is to offer cross-sector training and qualifications in a variety of job roles and locations, allowing candidates to gain invaluable first-hand experience and guidance from leading industry experts. Ultimately, enabling exposure into new career possibilities. But don’t just take our word for it, we caught up with Callum Buchan, our Asset Integrity Trainee Technician who started with Stork in February 2024, after serving 7 years in the Armed Forces.
“I joined the army in 2016, passing out of the Infantry Training Centre Catterick. Upon completion of training, I joined the 5th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland (Balaklava Company) where I spent four years. During this time, I undertook the Royal Guard at Balmoral, three times, whilst also conducting training exercises in Kenya, Kuwait and Oman.
From there, I joined 1 Scots in Belfast in the summer of 2020, where I spent time in the jungles of Belize and a bit of time in Africa, before the battalion re-rolled into The Ranger Regiment. During my time in Belfast, I gained promotion to Lance Corporal.
Upon leaving the forces, I heard about the opportunity at Stork through LinkedIn. I began my career with Stork in February and have since completed my rope access training and gained valuable NDT experience both on and offshore. At first, I was slightly apprehensive with my career change, the fear of the unknown when leaving the army and all the changes that come with it. However, all the apprehension was soon alleviated not long after joining Stork as everyone made me feel welcome and part of the team.
The transition from the forces to civilian life has come with many challenges but working at Stork has made the transition as smooth as possible and I now feel extremely settled and focused on my new career. The highlight of my time so far is my first trip offshore, conducting rope access scopes high above the installation.
My goals for the future are to get multiple NDT tickets under my belt and be able to perform as a successful NDT technician, with the support of my colleagues. One piece of advice I’d give to service leavers looking for a new career to put yourself out there as much as possible. Don’t be afraid to promote yourself, through the use of a good CV and tools such as LinkedIn. Networking is key."
As well as on boarding of new talent, we actively participate in activities directly linked to both serving and future members of the forces:
- Career Transition Partnership Recruitment Fairs
- Stork is members of the Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) Industry Armed Forces Forum, who promote the energy industry to those who are leaving the forces for employment
- West Lowland Battalion Army Cadet Force: Our employees spent time with members of the Cadet Force to gain an insight into their training and learning opportunities. In return, our team provided an overview of Stork and informed the cadets about how they can apply their extensive range of skills and values they’ve learnt so far, to their future careers.
- Internal Armed Forces Employee Network Group, hosted by Wayne Taylor, HSEQ Manager - England:
“Stork’s Armed Forces Network is a vital group that connects veterans and hopefully in time, active service members within our organisation, offering a platform for support, camaraderie and shared growth.
As host, my role is to guide the conversation, ensuring that everyone can contribute and be heard. Hosting the meetings reaffirmed my belief in the power of connection and the significance of providing platforms for veterans and service members to thrive, both personally and professionally.”
- We’re working towards our Silver Armed Forced Covenant Award
If the above aligns with your aspirations for the next step of your career, please reach out to careers@stork.com to find out more and learn how we can assist you with your transition journey.