Repairs and maintenance contractor Fortem, working with Stockport-based Project RECCE, are offering a two-week online housebuilding and property maintenance course in September, to give veterans from across the UK an opportunity to make the first step to embarking on a new career.
Formed in 2018, Project RECCE, funded by The Royal Foundation, The Armed Forces Covenant Trust, and the CITB, has developed a pathway for veterans, regardless of their previous experience, to acquire suitable skills in preparation for a career in the construction industry. The collaboration with Fortem has enabled Project RECCE to develop a bespoke course to suit those wishing to enter a career in housebuilding and property maintenance.
The course runs from 14th – 25th September 2020, and is fully funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Trust, COVID-19 Impact Fund.
The course will incorporate H&S training — including CSCS card, employability skills and an insight into a career in housebuilding and property maintenance. Following the course, attendees can engage in the Project RECCE mentoring programme and will have access to current employment and work trial opportunities.
Mick Williamson, Managing Director at Fortem, said: “Investing in creating employment opportunities is one of the most rewarding aspects of the work we do here at Fortem. We have developed more than 300 apprentices to become skilled, competent trades people and ambassadors for Fortem.
“This new scheme in partnership with Project REECE will enable Fortem to offer our skills and expertise to veterans who we hope will then go on to enjoy a second career in the construction industry.”
Laurence Moore, Operations Director at Project REECE, commented: “Former military personnel are trained to work in team environments, comfortable working outside, reliable, and know how to solve complex problems.
“Those skills make veterans a great match for construction, especially as the industry continues to deal with a qualified worker shortage. But it’s not about just filling open positions for many construction firms. In addition to meeting the need to find qualified candidates to hire, such schemes fulfil a broader obligation to offer high-paying construction career opportunities to the brave men and women who risked their lives to protect our freedom.”
Anyone interested in securing a place should contact Laurence Moore on LM@projectrecce.org.
The header image shows Laurence Moore from Project RECCE on the left with Fortem’s Service Delivery Lead, Kevin Watson.
