the challenge.
Caterpillar, a leading manufacturer of heavy machinery, faced a significant challenge in attracting and integrating armed forces veterans into its workforce. The transition from military to civilian life can be daunting for veterans, who often struggle to understand how their skills and experiences translate into the corporate environment. Caterpillar aimed to create a supportive pathway for these individuals, ensuring they were aware of the available job opportunities and the culture within the company.
To address this challenge, Caterpillar partnered with Randstad to develop initiatives that would not only attract veterans, but also educate them about the roles at Caterpillar and foster a sense of community.
the solution.
Randstad implemented a series of open days designed specifically for ex-soldiers through the Army Personnel Recovery Centre. These events provided a comprehensive overview of Caterpillar's operations while addressing the unique needs of transitioning veterans.
These events were held quarterly at Caterpillar's Peterlee site and occasionally at military bases such as Catterick Garrison, ensuring accessibility for candidates.
Despite challenges posed by COVID-19 lockdowns, which limited collaboration with organisations like Help for Heroes, Randstad adapted its approach to maintain support for veterans.
Key components of the solution:
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presentations and insights.
Veterans received presentations on the role of recruitment agencies and how they could assist in finding suitable employment opportunities at Caterpillar.
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site tours.
Attendees participated in guided tours of Caterpillar's facilities, gaining firsthand experience of the working environment and understanding the company's values.
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hands-on activities.
Participants engaged in mini assembly line exercises that simulated real job tasks, helping them assess their interest in various roles.
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skill development workshops.
Randstad provided workshops on CV writing and interview techniques tailored for veterans, enhancing their employability.
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peer insights.
Talks from ex-army employees offered relatable perspectives on transitioning from military to civilian work.
the partnership.
The partnership between Randstad and Caterpillar has effectively supported armed forces veterans in their transition to civilian careers by providing essential resources, insights into corporate culture, and direct access to job opportunities within a reputable organisation. The ongoing success of these initiatives underscores both companies' commitment to fostering inclusive hiring practices that benefit veterans while enriching their workforce.
