The Ministry of Defence has announced plans to help armed forces veterans move into technology careers.
The MoD has signed a partnership with TechVets, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping veterans find jobs in the cybersecurity field and the wider tech sector. TechVets will work with the ministry’s existing Career Transition Partnership, a programme offering education, training and careers help to those leaving military service.
In doing so, the non-profit entity has become one of more than 2,000 organisations throughout the country to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant, in which signatories pledge to take steps to support current and former service personnel and their families. Such support typically includes the provision of help with training and careers, as well as flexible working options for reservists and the families of servicemen and women.
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The MoD claimed that just 4% of veterans are currently employed in the technology or cyber sectors – compared with 24% of the wider population.
Minister for defence people and veterans Tobias Ellwood said: “Veterans have unique skills and experiences, gained from their time in the armed forces, which means they contribute a lot to society. It’s fantastic that TechVets will provide opportunities for veterans to apply their considerable talents to the cybersecurity field, which is playing an increasingly vital role in keeping this country safe.”
Co-founder of TechVets Mark Milton said: “We’re delighted to be able to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and strengthen our support for current and former service personnel and their families. The transferable skills of the veteran community are a real underutilised national resource and have a vital role to play in supporting the security and prosperity of the nation.”