Schneider Electric is expanding its Veterans Talent Programme, doubling its intake of ex-military recruits in 2025 as part of its effort to address the UK’s growing skills shortage in the energy management and electrical industry.
The programme, which launched in 2024, is designed to help veterans transition into operational and senior management roles, equipping them with the industry knowledge and technical expertise needed for high-demand positions. With the UK accelerating its shift towards cleaner energy and net zero targets, the demand for skilled professionals in the sector is increasing.
Following a successful first year in which all participants exceeded their performance targets, Schneider Electric will increase its intake from six to approximately 13 recruits in 2025. The company is seeking potential and passion rather than technical skills, with early bird applications now open.
Retraining veterans for leadership in energy management
The 12 to 18-month programme offers full-time salaried positions and provides specialist classroom-based and on-the-job training, requiring no prior technical experience. Candidates are selected based on their motivation and interests rather than existing skill sets.
Recruits begin their training at Schneider Electric’s academy in Coventry, before transitioning to on-the-job roles across the UK, gaining practical experience in key operational areas.
One of the programme’s early recruits, Damion Baines, who joined Schneider Electric in 2024 after 26 years of service in the British Army, highlighted how military experience translates into his new role.
“Keeping calm under pressure, the ability to problem solve, and empathise with others have all proved crucial in my role, where I ensure critical buildings remain operational,” said Baines, who now works as digital power systems operations manager.
Baines, a former tank driver who achieved the highest rank available to a soldier before becoming a captain, said the programme provides a vital pathway for veterans to step into leadership roles immediately.
“The skills I use in my role at Schneider Electric were honed from day one in my military career. The Veterans Talent Programme provides an important pathway to unlocking the full potential of ex-service personnel, enabling them to provide leadership immediately. Working for a company like Schneider Electric means nurturing this talent to accelerate the energy transition and with that, taps into a strong sense of social purpose that veterans share.”
Partnering with Redeployable to support career transitions
Schneider Electric has partnered with Redeployable, an AI-driven career transition platform that helps veterans map their military skills to civilian careers.
By leveraging smart career mapping, Redeployable identifies where veterans’ skills are most valuable in the workforce and provides personalised career plans to help them transition with confidence.
Ben Read, founder and CEO of Redeployable, said the programme is about more than just job placement—it is reshaping how businesses perceive veteran talent.
“Military skills bring unprecedented benefits to the workforce,” said Read. “Through our work with Schneider Electric, we are not just matching veterans to jobs—we’re transforming the way businesses view veteran talent, ensuring these professionals step into careers where they can make a lasting impact.”
Kelly Becker, president of Schneider Electric UK and Ireland, Belgium, and Netherlands, emphasised the company’s commitment to diversity and innovation.
“At Schneider Electric, we are passionate about growing a diverse workforce, and veterans are no exception,” said Becker. “Our programme not only helps us to build talent to support the green transition, but veterans also bring a wealth of skills and unmatched benefits to our company, fuelling more diverse and innovative thinking.”
By doubling its veteran intake, Schneider Electric aims to provide more ex-military professionals with meaningful career opportunities while ensuring its workforce is equipped to support the UK’s energy transition.
