Empowering our armed forces: a network of support

I joined the Royal Navy in 2007. I initially trained at BRNC Dartmouth and HMS Sultan for specialist nuclear propulsion, qualifying as a Vanguard Class Submarine Engineering Shift Manager in 2014. I went on to conduct nuclear deterrent patrols on HMS Vengeance, worked alongside the US Navy Submarine Fleet, and later with Rolls Royce on a future submarine propulsion programme.

I joined EDF in 2021 after my daughters were born in 2018 and 2021. I chose to join the company so I could take what I’d learned in the defence nuclear industry and support the UK’s net zero aspirations and security of energy supply, whilst being there for my family. I am now a Royal Navy Reservist.

What are main challenges moving from the navy to EDF?

Being in the armed forces is not a job, it is a lifestyle. Leaving the forces is a major change to your daily routine and some people can feel lost at times.

How has EDF supported you?

I spend two weeks as a Reservist each year and 10 days additional leave is provided by the company for this. The Forces Support Network is a community of people with links to the armed forces. It’s not just for veterans and reservists but also family members or anyone with an affinity to the military including the emergency services. We share a common ethos and values; the network can help provide a military community within EDF with relatable stories and experiences.

What activities does the Forces Support Network offer?

At Hinkley Point C, the chaplain delivers a Remembrance service and we collect for the Poppy Appeal. We recognise Armed Forces Week in June with discussion events and sometimes a guest speaker. Last year we hiked 15 miles over Dartmoor and raised £1300 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. This year, we hope to run more discussion sessions, another charity event and produce a six-monthly newsletter.
 

What advice would you give anyone who is a service leaver or supporting someone in their family or a friend?

Hold your head up high, you’re more useful than you give yourself credit for. If you apply yourself with the same level of passion as you did in the military, you can go far with EDF. If you’re struggling with anything, don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s impossible to know everything. The most powerful thing is to ask the right people the right question – it’s just finding who they are! Build professional networks, it helps you settle and build the team spirit that you might be missing.