Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N), the government body tasked with advancing the UK's nuclear energy capabilities, has been honoured with the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Bronze Award. The announcement, made on Armed Forces Day, signifies GBE-N's dedication to supporting the broader Armed Forces community, encompassing serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and their families.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme acknowledges UK organisations that demonstrate a clear commitment to those who serve, or have served, in the armed forces. For GBE-N, this recognition underscores its belief that a diverse talent pool, including individuals with military backgrounds, is crucial for achieving energy sovereignty and the nation’s clean energy objectives. The organisation is particularly focused on supporting the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), a key component of the UK's future energy strategy.
GBE-N highlights the significant value of skills cultivated through military service, such as operating in highly regulated environments, managing complex projects, maintaining stringent safety standards, and leading teams under challenging conditions. These aptitudes are considered highly transferable and equally vital within the demanding nuclear sector. The organisation aims to facilitate a smoother transition for veterans and reservists into civilian careers by recognising these invaluable skills and providing career opportunities.
Simon Roddy, Chief Executive of GBE-N, emphasised the importance of attracting individuals with the necessary skills, commitment, and purpose to deliver complex national programmes safely and successfully. He stated that members of the Armed Forces community, who have dedicated their careers to serving the nation, can continue to make significant contributions within the burgeoning nuclear sector as GBE-N builds the national capability required for new nuclear projects across the UK.
Beyond recruitment, GBE-N is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where veterans, reservists, and military families feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Rachel Welch, Chief People Officer at GBE-N, noted that the Armed Forces community brings a vast array of skills, experiences, and perspectives that enrich workplaces and strengthen teams. She expressed pride that the Bronze Award recognises this commitment, affirming the organisation’s dedication as it continues to grow.
While the Bronze Award marks an important milestone, GBE-N views it as a starting point. The organisation plans to explore further avenues to enhance its support for the Armed Forces community, ensuring that talented individuals can play a pivotal role in delivering one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure programmes. GBE-N operates as an arm’s length body of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, contributing to long-term energy security, net-zero targets, and promoting investment and innovation within the nuclear sector.
Source: Great British Energy – Nuclear