From Army Service to the Highways Sector: Reece’s Journey with Building Heroes and Velocity
After more than 15 years in the British Army, Reece Johnson was ready for a new challenge.
Academy: Building Heroes Heybridge Skills Academy
Delivery Partners: Gateshead College
Programme Completed: February 2024
Current Role: Highways Operative, Velocity Patching & Preservation - Velocity
As an MT Sergeant in the Royal Artillery, Reece had built a career around leadership, vehicle management, operational planning and delivering results under pressure. But, like many service leavers, deciding what came next was not straightforward.
“I’d spent most of my adult life in the Army and had no idea what I wanted to do next. I just knew I wanted to do something different.”
While preparing to leave the Forces, Reece began exploring practical career options. A project at home had sparked an interest in construction and groundworks, and after hearing positive feedback from a senior colleague, he decided to find out more about Building Heroes.
“I’d never heard of the charity before, but once I looked into the courses, it just made sense.”
For Reece, Building Heroes offered the opportunity to gain practical skills, build confidence and explore how his military experience could transfer into a new civilian career.
Gaining skills and confidence
One of the most valuable parts of Reece’s transition was the support he received through the Building Heroes programme.
The course gave him the opportunity to develop practical industry skills while learning alongside other service leavers who understood the challenges of transition.
“The atmosphere was familiar and supportive. You’re learning new skills, but you’re doing it with people who completely understand where you’re coming from.”
Alongside practical training, Building Heroes provided employability support, helping Reece translate his military experience into a civilian CV and prepare for interviews.
It was also through Building Heroes that Reece was introduced to Velocity, a Bronze Sponsoring Partner of Building Heroes and a valued employer partner.
Partnership opening doors
Through its partnership with Velocity, Building Heroes was able to give Reece direct insight into the highways sector and the career opportunities available.
When members of the Velocity team visited the course to speak with learners, Reece was able to see how the skills he was developing could be applied in a real working environment.
“Being able to see the work in action made a real difference. It helped put everything into context.”
That employer engagement proved to be an important step in Reece’s transition. Following an interview with Velocity during the programme, he successfully secured a role with the business.
Building a career with Velocity
More than two years later, Reece continues to thrive.
Today, he works as a Road Repair Operative, supporting vital road maintenance and repair projects that help keep local communities moving safely.
He enjoys the responsibility that comes with the role and takes pride in seeing the results of completed projects.
“A lot of what I do now draws directly on skills I developed in the Army: planning, discipline and turning up ready to deliver.”
From day one, Reece felt welcomed into the Velocity team and encouraged to continue developing his skills and knowledge. For him, the move into the highways sector has shown just how valuable military experience can be in civilian employment.
Recognising the value of service leavers
Reece believes there are strong links between military service and careers in highways and infrastructure.
The ability to work as part of a team, solve problems, adapt to changing situations and maintain high standards are all qualities that transfer naturally into the sector.
“Velocity really values the skills that people with a service background bring. That really stands out.”
Reece has since recommended other service leavers to Velocity, several of whom have gone on to secure roles of their own.
Now firmly settled into civilian life, Reece is proud of the career he has built and encourages others leaving the Armed Forces to be open minded about the opportunities available.
His story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when training, transition support and employer partnerships come together.
For Building Heroes, partnerships with employers such as Velocity are vital. As a Bronze Sponsoring Partner and valued employer partner, Velocity has helped turn training and support into a meaningful employment outcome, creating real opportunity for Reece and others from the Armed Forces community.
Reece’s journey shows that the skills developed during military service can provide strong foundations for a successful civilian career, particularly when supported by employers who recognise their value.
If you are a service leaver, veteran, reservist or military family member thinking about your next step, a Building Heroes programme could help you gain new skills, build confidence and explore opportunities in construction and the built environment.
Find out more about Building Heroes programmes and register your interest below.
