Boeing

As the world's largest aerospace company, Boeing offers a natural fit for service leavers seeking a familiar environment. A longstanding defence contractor, Boeing recently revalidated its Gold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme award. With over 3,600 UK staff, around 260 are veterans, reserves or Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.

Veterans' skills and knowledge of Boeing's military platforms like Apache and Chinook are highly valued. Boeing has partnerships with veteran agencies like RAJA and CTP, encouraging staff to share transition experiences. It runs military recruitment events and supports forces activities.

Reaching those without direct industry experience is a focus. Initiatives like partnering with BLESMA will support wounded personnel's transition. Boeing is exploring technical entry routes, such as starting in non-specialist ground crew roles before gaining supervised qualifications to become technicians.

Salaries range from £24-27,000 for entry-level roles to £30-40,000 for qualified technicians and IT specialists. Ex-senior ranks entering management roles can expect circa £50-65,000.

The BRAVO network connects Boeing's veterans, reserves and supporters. It provides mentoring, helps managers understand ex-forces staff, and gives corporate military knowledge.

Upcoming is the Return Flight returnship programme offering STEM experienced returners a supported route back to full-time work, benefitting veterans and partners.

The Boeing Global Engagement "Our Heroes" pillar aids transition and tackles disadvantage for underrepresented and minority veterans. Boeing's defence heritage means veterans feel instantly at home and supported, "like they never left". Leaders and groups like BRAVO enable integration into business while bringing civilians closer to the military.

Boeing provides extensive support to forces leavers, from targeted entry routes to peer networking. With defence at its core and a Gold ERS award, Boeing offers a welcoming environment where veterans can resettle into a familiar, family-like setting.