Military programme helps former soldiers to launch careers

A military programme has helped soldiers to get their lives back on track, it has been revealed.

Siemens’ Military2Rail Programme allows those with engineering experience and qualifications to put their skills to use in a training regime in Wiltshire.

As part of the course, participants learn a variety of skills, such as basic signalling, electrical principles, computer-aided design, technical drawings, process automation and signal works testing.

Two injured heroes managed to stave off competition to join eight other ex-servicemen on the training programme.

Veterans Paul Wilson and Clint Williams will embark upon the scheme on November 9th.

Those who pass the course successfully will be offered a job at the end of the course.

Commenting on the developments, Mr Williams said in an interview published by Help for Heroes: "When I was told by Help for Heroes about the opportunity with Siemens, I jumped at the chance. I grew up in South Africa where I had experience working with steam trains so it’s an area I’ve always wanted to pursue.

“This new start feels like I have finally taken control of my life again. I owe so much of that to the Pathfinder course and the Help for Heroes team. Prior to my discharge, I was in such a low place but they picked me up and restored my confidence and belief that things could get better. Now that’s coming to fruition and I cannot wait to get started."

Both soldiers partly owe their success to the Pathfinder course at Help for Heroes Recovery Centre, Tedworth House.

The course allows members to ease into civilian life and to help them launch successful careers.