The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) Group has formally committed to supporting the nation's military community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. This significant step, encompassing both the UKAEA National Fusion Laboratory and UK Fusion Energy (UKFE), underscores a dedication to serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and their families, ensuring they are treated with fairness and respect.
This commitment is particularly timely as the UK fusion sector, a key priority within the recently published UK Fusion Strategy, is actively seeking to expand its skills pipeline. UKAEA recognises the wealth of transferable skills developed within the armed forces, such as mechanical and electrical technical expertise, logistics, project management, and leadership, which are highly sought after in the drive to bring fusion energy to the national grid.
To raise awareness and facilitate career transitions, UKAEA's Fusion Opportunities in Skills, Training, Education and Research (FOSTER) programme has been proactive. The programme has engaged with military personnel at various career events and, in January 2026, hosted 40 soon-to-leave or recently departed armed forces personnel at its Culham Campus. This event provided insights into pathways into the fusion industry and offered networking opportunities with veterans already employed by UKAEA.
Justin Kingsford, Chief Operating Officer at UKAEA and a veteran himself, highlighted the cultural alignment between the armed forces and UKAEA, describing both as mission-driven organisations united by a commitment to a greater purpose. He emphasised shared values such as teamwork, innovation, integrity, and selfless commitment as crucial for success in challenging environments, whether in national defence or advancing sustainable fusion energy.
The signing ceremony was facilitated by Louis Szreider, Defence Relationship Manager from the South East Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations (SERFCA), with Wing Commander Alice Tierney, Station Commander at RAF Benson, co-signing on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. Ryan Ramsey, Director of Organisational Performance at UKFE and a former submarine captain, reinforced the value of highly trained armed forces personnel, noting their potential to make a positive and tangible impact on the delivery of the STEP Mission and the development of the country's prototype fusion powerplant.