- The UK needs skilled workers for the EV transition, with 40,000 new automotive jobs expected by 2030.
- A new veterans career guide, launched by Mission Automotive & SMMT, helps ex-military personnel enter the industry.
- Veterans have key skills like engineering and leadership, making them ideal for high-demand EV and tech roles.
SMMT and Mission Automotive build career bridges into the EV sector for veterans
The UK’s shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is creating thousands of new jobs. But to meet demand, the industry needs skilled workers. A new veterans career guide, launched by Mission Automotive and SMMT, aims to help ex-Armed Forces personnel fill these crucial roles. The initiative was launched at Silverstone with a host of ex-armed forces personnel.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, commented:
“The valuable skills and experience provided by Service Leavers are crucial to the industry’s future, especially as we shift to increasingly advanced technologies. Our continued work with Mission Automotive and the release of the veterans career guide should encourage and support Forces Leavers who are considering the automotive sector as a career path at such an important time for the industry.”
With 40,000 new automotive jobs expected by 2030, the sector is rapidly transforming. Engineers, software developers, and technicians are in high demand. Many of these skills align with military experience, making veterans ideal candidates. The career guide provides advice on roles, required qualifications, and pathways into the industry.
James Cameron, Founder and CEO of Mission Automotive, added:
“Marking five years of the Mission Automotive initiative in partnership with SMMT is a testament to the incredible impact that industry collaboration can have on the Armed Forces community. Since 2019, we have helped demonstrate that veterans are a national strategic asset; bringing unmatched skills, discipline, and leadership to a sector undergoing rapid transformation. Our goal is to create long-term, meaningful employment pathways that not only uplift the Armed Forces community but also strengthen the UK’s workforce as a whole, ensuring no talent goes untapped in this green growth decade.”
Mission Motorsport founded Mission Automotive in 2019 as part of the Forces’ Motorsport Charity. Backed by the Ministry of Defence, The Royal Foundation, and SMMT, the initiative helps veterans transition into sustainable careers.
The UK’s transition to electric vehicles isn’t just about cutting emissions—it’s about building a stronger, more sustainable economy. With thousands of new jobs emerging, industries need skilled workers to drive innovation. Veterans, with their technical expertise and leadership, are well-positioned to thrive in this green revolution. By tapping into this talent pool, the UK automotive sector can future-proof its workforce while offering ex-Forces personnel long-term, well-paid careers
