July 6, 2023
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An ‘Armed Force to Workforce’ awareness session was held on June 29.
The webinar was organised by Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce and hosted by ChamberFORCE.
Highland RFCA Head of Engagement Michelle McKearnon introduced the session, explaining to the 20+ participants about the history and purpose of the ChamberFORCE initiative.
She also emphasised the range of skills Reservists gain in the Armed Forces and bring back to their civilian workplaces.
She then handed over to Nicola Smith, Development Officer with the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.
Nicola highlighted the range of transferable skills that ex-service personnel bring to the workplace. She also explained about the wealth of qualifications veterans and service leavers can offer – many of which are not always immediately apparent to employers outside the Armed Forces.
She also provided valuable insights into the innovative SCQF “Military Skills Discovery Tool”. This tool translates the skills, experience, and qualifications gained during service into language that is easily understood by learning institutions and employers outside the Armed Forces.
It supports ex-military personnel in gaining employment or pursuing further education, while also helping serving personnel understand their skills and qualifications, helping them to plan their careers effectively.
Try the tool HERE (link to SCQF website).
The session was particularly useful given that many businesses are struggling to recruit quality, skilled staff, with ex-service personnel offering a significant opportunity to help fill the gaps.
◼︎ ChamberFORCE is a partnership between four chambers of commerce (Dunbartonshire, Dundee & Angus, Fife and Moray) and the Ministry of Defence (represented by Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association) created to strengthen the links between businesses and military bases and personnel in the four chamber areas. Amazon supports the initiative.
