Why Women Leaving the Armed Forces Are a Great Fit for Construction
Women across the UK Armed Forces leave service every year with a powerful skillset that is highly valued in civilian careers. Yet many are unsure where their experience fits, and employers often overlook the potential that ex-military women can bring to their workforce.
At Women and Manual Trades (WaMT), we want to bridge that gap by supporting women as they transition into meaningful careers, and helping employers understand the advantages of bringing ex-military talent into construction and the trades.
Why Construction Is a Strong Next Step for Service Leavers
Construction and the wider trades sector continue to face a significant skills shortage. Employers are actively looking for people who bring reliability, teamwork, leadership, communication, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Women leaving the Armed Forces already embody these strengths. Their experience translates naturally into hands-on roles, site-based teamwork, problem-solving, and project delivery. Many simply need guidance on how their military background aligns with the opportunities available.
Support for Women Transitioning Out of the Military
WaMT provides free, tailored support for women planning their next chapter, including:
- Understanding training pathways and qualifications
- Using ELCAS funding effectively
- Connecting with employers who value military experience
- Access to supportive, women-focused training environments
- Guidance on choosing the right trade or construction role
Whether someone is approaching their final year of service or has already transitioned, we can help them move forward with confidence.
Support for Employers
We also work closely with employers who want to diversify their teams, close skills gaps, and benefit from the strengths that ex-military women bring.
WaMT helps organisations:
- Understand the value of military skillsets
- Connect with motivated women seeking careers in trades
- Promote inclusive, supportive pathways into their workforce