From frontline to power lines – veterans launch new energy careers
Posted by: electime 9th November 2026
Members of the 2026 UK Power Networks’ work experience programme completing their course
Military veterans have secured full-time roles in the energy industry after completing a pioneering work experience programme.
UK Power Networks took nine Armed Services leavers through a two-week work experience programme giving them an insight into the industry.
In partnership with the British Forces resettlement Service (BFRS), the group enjoyed insight into operational and office-based work as part of the firm’s tailored programme designed to help service leavers transition into civilian roles.
The programme which first ran in 2025 was rated an average of 9.73 out of 10 by participants, three of the nine candidates were offered full-time roles at the company, which also runs an armed forces community with over 100 members.
Eight more service leavers have now followed in the footsteps of the initial cohort and gained essential experience in the electricity industry, which welcomes their military skills.
Former Royal Air Force Regiment sergeant and now a linesperson at UK Power Networks, Stewart Mewse, said: “After 23 years in the military, the transition to civilian life felt daunting, but the support from UK Power Networks’ team and military work experience programme gave me the confidence to take that next step. They took the time to understand my background, explain how my skills could transfer into the energy sector and provide honest advice and encouragement throughout.”
The Bury St Edmunds resident added “The willingness of colleagues to share their knowledge and answer questions made the experience engaging and inspiring.
“Leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills developed in the military can translate into a rewarding civilian career.”
Peterborough resident and former staff sergeant with the 1st Military Working Dogs Regiment, Gareth Instone, said: “The whole experience has been invaluable for me as I move through my resettlement and look toward a future career. The exposure to operational sites, substations, safety practices and the people behind them has been eye opening and motivating.
“Spending time with the substation fitters and linespeople on site, seeing their skills and professionalism first-hand, was a real highlight of the programme. They were open, patient and generous with their knowledge.”
The work experience programme is backed by the British Forces Resettlement Service, and spokesperson Neil Dean said: “Programmes like this provide genuine value to both the Armed Forces Community and employers.
“They give individuals the confidence and understanding to make informed career decisions while giving organisations access to highly skilled, motivated people whose experience may not always be immediately apparent through a traditional recruitment process.”
The scheme was recently shortlisted for the London Construction Awards and the Utility Week Awards.
