HIGH FLYING NORTHERN IRELAND EMPLOYERS VISIT RAF CONINGSBY

Five Northern Irish employers visited RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire last weekend to learn more about how the Royal Air Force develops its military capability and to find out more about the importance of employer understanding and support for a Reservist’s military service. 

The event was organised to showcase the RAF’s commitment to Reserves and the benefits of the skills and attributes that Reservist employees take back in to the civilian workplace as a result of their military training.

The event included a guided tour around RAF Coningsby, usually off limits to the public, as well as a chance to see a number of aircraft and other equipment used on military operations around the world.

During the visit, attendees were split into groups to see a variety of demonstrations and static stands themed around the RAF’s power roles and capabilities relating to the RAF Reserve. 

Athene Gordon, the Ministry of Defence’s Northern Ireland Regional Employer Engagement Director, said: “30 employers from across the country attended this RAF engagement event. Members of the Reserve Forces undergo a variety of training each year which allows them to build on their team working, management, problem solving and leadership skills, each of which are valuable attributes that can be transferred back to their civilian workplaces. 

“The event at RAF Coningsby allowed employers to speak directly to Reservists and ask questions about military training, highlights and challenging moments of their careers and how Reservists balance their military commitments around their civilian jobs and family commitments.”