On the 3rd of December, John Deere will run a free online event as part of its Military Hiring Programme to help service leavers understand how their skills can transfer into the agricultural and groundscare sectors.
According to the company, there has been strong interest in the scheme since it launched in the UK in 2023.
The event will give attendees an idea of the roles available across the dealer network, as well as the training pathway and the support available.
Allan Cochran, training centre manager at John Deere, explains: “We know the skills, discipline and problem-solving experience found in the armed forces match perfectly with our technician and support roles,” said Allan. “This is a chance to hear directly from our team and speak with people who have already made the move. Service leavers bring huge value to our dealers and we will continue to invest in pathways that help them succeed.”
Former Royal Navy engineer Graham Walker will share his journey. His 24 years in service were mostly spent aboard nuclear submarines. Graham then used his background, technical versatility, and leadership experience to move into a senior role at John Deere dealer Smallridge Bros.
On board the submarine, with no access to spare parts, Graham and his team often had to manufacture components from raw materials to keep critical systems running. He became skilled in hydraulics, gas and atmosphere management, propulsion, and nuclear engineering — all under pressure and in confined conditions.
Since following the Military Hiring Programme pathway, Graham has now taken the role of service manager at Smallridge’s Callington depot in Cornwall.
“Attending an event like this is thoroughly worthwhile,” said Graham. “You understand the scale of the opportunity and hear first-hand from people who have already made the move. The support is there from day one, and the programme helps you map out your next steps.”
The online event starts at 7pm on the 3rd December. Registration is open now at https://JDMHP.eventbrite.co.uk.