Celebrating 5 Years of Project RECCE: A Triumph of Veterans in Construction
Celebrating 5 Years of Project RECCE: A Triumph of Veterans in Construction
As we reflect on the recent Project RECCE 'Veterans Lead the Way' event at the National Memorial Arboretum, it's clear that consistency and commitment have been the cornerstones of this remarkable initiative's success.
Since its inception just five years ago, Project RECCE has transformed the landscape of veteran employment in construction:
• Over 700 veterans placed into sustainable construction roles
• Dramatically improved narrative on employing veterans
• Recognition of veterans' skills, values, and standards as superior to civilian counterparts
This success story is a testament to the power of social proof. Employers across the industry are increasingly recognising the unique value that veterans bring to their teams.
Key event highlights:
• Mulalley's signing of the Armed Forces Covenant, showcasing industry-wide commitment
• Insightful panel discussion led by esteemed RECCE ambassadors
• Powerful speeches from authorities like Jimmy Quinn, Jimmy Scott, Rob Shenton and Col Duncan Southall.
The role of RECCE ambassadors cannot be overstated. These individuals, respected in both military and civilian spheres, have been instrumental in bridging worlds and opening doors. Their influence has been a driving force behind Project RECCE's remarkable progress.
Critical focus areas emerged:
1. Sustainable Funding: The urgent need for a consistent funding stream to continue RECCE's vital work in providing pathways, mentorship, and support.
2. Strategic Communication: Emphasising effective communication as the linchpin of successful strategies in both military and civilian contexts.
3. "Half Way There": Jimmy Quinn's poignant observation that veterans are already "half way there" underscores the immense potential they bring to construction.
4. Political Continuity: The changing political landscape must not undo the hard-won progress achieved by predecessors and the third sector. We must ensure continued support for these crucial initiatives.
We're deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners, including Considerate Constructors, MOD Defense Relationship Management, Henry Williams & Son, Balfour Beatty, Sunbelt Rental, and Cheetham Hill Construction. Their support exemplifies the reciprocity that strengthens our community.
Special thanks to Col Duncan Southall, Defence Relationship Management, and all attendees who made this event a resounding success. Your presence and engagement demonstrate the unity of purpose that drives our mission forward.
The expert panel hosted by John Davies, featuring Graham Martin, Paul Athans, and Joe Gibbons, provided rare insights into the veteran experience in construction. Their stories of transition and success are both inspiring and instructive.
As we celebrate how far Project RECCE has come, we're also acutely aware of how quickly opportunities can vanish if we don't act. The progress we've made is significant but fragile. We must act now to secure and expand these pathways for our veterans.
Join us in championing Project RECCE. By supporting veterans, we're not just changing individual lives – we're strengthening our industries and our nation. Together, we can ensure that veterans continue to lead the way, bringing their unparalleled skills, values, and standards to the civilian workforce.
The time to act is now. How will you support this crucial mission?
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