BiKBBI CEO Damian Walters delivered a presentation to Essex businesses on Tuesday evening in Southend-on-Sea, on why they should support the armed forces community and how it's a "no-brainer" for the RMI and construction industry.
Invited to speak by The Ministry of Defence, the BiKBBI Chief Executive spoke passionately about construction and RMI industry and how it benefits from a formal relationship with the Armed Forces. Damian urged businesses to consider signing the Armed Forces Covenant and to further consider the support the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
Damian said: "It's no secret that there is a labour shortage within our industry and how that is impacting the wider British economy. You will hear weekly from those in Parliament that targets are not being met and our visit to The House of Lords last week highlighted the extend of the problem, but importantly the opportunities available".
Walters added: "Our Army, Navy and Air Force has a diverse, well trained and disciplined workforce, with many regiments and departments brimming with talented personnel, many with hugely transferrable skills. Harnessing those skills and working with Defence to transition those in green to a fulfilling and valuable civilian life is an absolute no-brainer, not just from an ethical perspective - but from a selfish one too. These incredible people deserve the opportunities available within our sector and we deserve to benefit from their contribution".
Kristina Carrington, Regional Employer Engagement Director, EA RFCA introduced BiKBBI as a current Silver Award holder and confirmed that the organisation had ambitions to further its commitment to the Defence community by applying for the Gold Award in 2026 - coincidentally, the organisations 20th anniversary year.
EDUCATION | STANDARDS | SUSTAINABILITY | COMPLIANCE |
