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Friday 26 Jun 2015

From the British Army to Network Rail’s Orange Army

Region & Route:

| Southern

To celebrate Armed Forces Day, Network Rail has been talking to one of its military veterans about switching from the British Army to the Network Rail’s Orange Army of engineers.

Each year, around 20,000 people leave the UK Armed Forces, 80 per cent of which are under 40 and 50 per cent of which are under 25.

Network Rail recognises the skills that veterans bring to the industry and regards those with a military background highly – they tend to be disciplined, tenacious, good team players and loyal.

Previously a Lance Corporal in the Royal Engineers, Andy Wheeler now works in Brighton as a technician on conductor rail engineering, bringing with him the skills and experience gained from his military career.

Battlefield engineering

“After leaving school at 16 with mediocre GCSEs, I decided to join the army,” said Andy. “After basic training, I felt drawn towards specialising in battlefield engineering and trained at Gibraltar Barracks, Camberley, eventually passing out as a Royal Engineer.

“After additional training at the Royal School of Military Engineering in Chatham, I was posted to 26 Engineer Regiment Ludgershall, part of the Persham Down Garrison near Andover.

“I worked all over the world – Canada, Kenya, Norway and served in Afghanistan in 2007 as part of Operation Herrick Six.”

Conductor rail engineering

“The experience I gained was valuable and shaped me into the man I am today.

“I’ve always had an interest in electronics, building and engineering, so when I left the army I joined the business as an apprentice at the age of 24.

“After completing my apprenticeship, I went into a technician’s role in conductor rail engineering and I’m proud to be a part of the Orange Army.”

Challenges

“The army and Network Rail have plenty of similarities – the challenges, pressure, a professional can-do attitude, where every day is different and a strong teamwork ethos.

“But undoubtedly, the biggest connection is safety – those with a military background will know keeping yourself and your colleagues safe is a top priority in the Forces and it obviously is for us too.

“I would definitely encourage anybody who is leaving the Forces to consider Network Rail – the skills and experience they have will be much appreciated and the whole team working and practical skills means it’s a great fit.”

You can find out more about careers for ex-military personnel in Network Rail at: http://www.networkrail.co.uk/careers/ex-forces-personnel/