From the RAF to HS2: Inspiring Career Transitions for Ex-Forces Personnel

A New Path for Ex-Forces

A former Royal Air Force officer, Maggie McCann, is leveraging her experience to assist fellow ex-forces personnel in securing new careers within the construction industry, specifically on HS2, Britain’s new high-speed railway. Over 100 individuals have successfully gained employment through this program aimed at integrating former service members into this vital sector.

Maggie recently took on the role of consents manager at HS2, focusing on obtaining the necessary environmental and planning consents for the railway's construction. She is actively encouraging others to explore similar career opportunities, coinciding with an upcoming open day for ex-Armed Forces members in the West Midlands.

Maggie's Journey

At 35 years old and hailing from Lincolnshire, Maggie initially aspired to be a pilot but pivoted to an engineering officer role within the RAF after not meeting medical standards. Over her 13-year career, she gained significant experience, including two international tours and managing frontline Tornado aircraft.

After deciding to leave the RAF, Maggie sought assistance from BuildForce, a program dedicated to helping ex-Armed Forces personnel transition into civilian roles in construction. An initial conversation with BuildForce’s CEO led her to discover opportunities within HS2.

Impact on HS2

Since 2021, HS2 has partnered with BuildForce to facilitate employment for under-represented groups, resulting in over 100 placements, with 60% of these roles filled by individuals working with HS2’s construction partner, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV). Maggie is the first female former service member recruited through this partnership.

In her role, she collaborates with the Environment Agency and local authorities to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Her extensive RAF background in policy and contract management has proven invaluable in her new position.

Support and Flexibility

Maggie appreciates the supportive environment at BBV, which allows her to balance her career and family life, as she manages responsibilities for her two young children. Andrew Bellingall, a Senior Project Manager at BBV and a Buildforce Ambassador, highlights Maggie's transferable skills and encourages other service leavers to consider careers in construction.

Open Day Invitation

BBV is actively seeking to expand its workforce and is hosting an open day for ex-services personnel on March 27, 2025, at their construction site in Kingsbury, Warwickshire. Maggie will share her transition story, and HS2 aims to support former service members with mentoring and wellness programs.

Caroline Logan, Programme Director at BuildForce, expresses excitement about matching military skills to civilian roles, emphasizing the depth of talent within the military community. Interested Armed Forces personnel are encouraged to attend the open day to explore opportunities within HS2.

For more information, visit the BuildForce website.