John Deere will run a free online Military Hiring Programme event on Wednesday 3 December to help service leavers understand how their skills transfer into careers working with advanced agricultural and turf machinery.
The virtual session will give attendees a clear view of the roles available across the UK and Ireland dealer network, the training pathway, and the support on offer to those leaving the forces.
It follows strong interest in John Deere’s resettlement pathway – launched in the UK in 2023 – which continues to bring ex-military talent into its dealership teams.
Allan Cochran, Training Centre Manager at John Deere, will outline how the programme works and what candidates can expect once they start their transition into civilian employment.
“We know the skills, discipline and problem-solving experience found in the armed forces match perfectly with our technician and support roles,” said Allan. “This is a chance to hear directly from our team and speak with people who have already made the move. Service leavers bring huge value to our dealers and we will continue to invest in pathways that help them succeed.”
Former Royal Navy engineer Graham Walker will share his journey. His 24 years in service were mostly spent aboard nuclear submarines. Graham then used his background, technical versatility, and leadership experience to move into a senior role at John Deere dealer Smallridge Bros.
On board the submarine, with no access to spare parts, Graham and his team often had to manufacture components from raw materials to keep critical systems running. He became skilled in hydraulics, gas and atmosphere management, propulsion, and nuclear engineering — all under pressure and in confined conditions.
Since following the Military Hiring Programme pathway, Graham has now taken the role of Service Manager at Smallridge’s Callington depot in Cornwall.
“Attending an event like this is online introduction to the programme is thoroughly worthwhile,” said Graham. “You understand the scale of the opportunity and hear first-hand from people who have already made the move. The support is there from day one and the programme helps you map out your next steps.”
The online event will also feature Chris Giles from Tallis Amos Group’s Leominster depot, who previously served in the forces and has since built a successful career in the dealership network.
James Evans, Division Customer Support Manager for John Deere, will explain how the business supports ex-forces staff as they move into the workshop and wider dealership environment.
Earlier this year, John Deere was named in the 50 Great British Employers of Veterans 2025 list, and has signed the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Military Hiring Programme connects service leavers with a dedicated mentor, provides free training and supports the transition into full-time roles with John Deere dealers.
The online event starts at 7pm on 3 December. Registration is open now at https://JDMHP.eventbrite.co.uk.
Those unable to attend will have the chance to watch a recording afterwards, and can apply to the Military Hiring Programme at any time by visiting www.deere.com/JDMHP.
