Shifting from military to civilian life can be exciting but challenging. Recently, I spent a week at Kier Construction - Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine site. The experience strengthened my belief in the transferable processes between the construction industry and the military. These processes being:
Safe Systems of Work - Both the military and construction industries are inherently hazardous environments. A culture of safety is essential for both, with a strong focus on a safety-first approach to protect everyone involved. Kier employs the 5 SHE Basics Model to ensure all workers have the essential skills, knowledge, attitude, training, and equipment prior to starting a task.
Leadership - Military leadership skills, such as decision-making under pressure and strategic planning, are vital in construction. These skills ensure projects stay on track, teams are motivated, and challenges are swiftly addressed.
Effective Communication - Clear and effective communication, as practiced in the military, is essential in the construction industry. It ensures that instructions are understood, tasks are coordinated smoothly, and safety protocols are followed. This clarity helps prevent errors and enhances overall project efficiency.
As I reflect on my experience at Kier, I am grateful for the insights gained and the connections made. My military journey equipped me with resilience and leadership skills that are highly relevant in construction, and I’m excited to carry these lessons forward as I embark on this new chapter.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to BuildForce Programme and Caroline Logan for making this week possible through her relations with Claire Bland Kier Group. Both organisations share a vision of supporting armed forces service leavers, helping them transition smoothly into civilian roles. Their commitment includes providing training, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. This joint effort not only benefits the individuals but also brings valuable skills and experiences to the construction industry.
To my fellow service members going through career transition, I encourage you to embrace such opportunities. Every experience adds to your toolkit, preparing you for success in civilian life.
A special thanks to Joseph Rivers and Jake Edwards (Grad IOSH) for hosting, creating an open environment for learning, and demonstrating their exceptionally high standards. These standards will serve as a benchmark for any future work I undertake within the construction industry.
#forcestransition #Projectmanagement #SafetyFirst #CulturalDevelopment #Construction
Congratulations Encon Construction Ltd! It's great to see all the fantastic work the team is doing at SGS Pegasus School 📚🍎