Veterans into Logistics successfully aided James Meakins, a former soldier, in securing a new career, showcasing their commitment to providing meaningful employment opportunities for veterans.
- James Meakins, who served over 14 years in the military, transitioned smoothly into civilian life as an HGV driver with support from Veterans into Logistics.
- The Royal British Legion played a pivotal role in referring Meakins to Veterans into Logistics, highlighting the collaborative effort in veteran employment resettlement.
- Meakins’ military background as a vehicle mechanic and his existing HGV licence made him an ideal candidate for the highway solutions role at EST.
- The successful transition of Meakins underscores the importance of supporting veterans in leveraging their military skills for civilian careers.
James Meakins, a 36-year-old former soldier, found a new career as an HGV driver with the help of Veterans into Logistics, emphasising the organisation’s pivotal role in aiding veterans to reintegrate into civilian life. Having served over 14 years in the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Meakins already possessed an operational service medal and an HGV licence, which made his transition more seamless.
Upon leaving the military in 2019, Meakins experienced significant life changes, including a period of homelessness. His situation improved after contacting The Royal British Legion, which referred him to Veterans into Logistics, enabling him to secure employment at EST, a firm specialising in highway solutions.
Meakins expressed enthusiasm for his new role, noting that the flexibility and mobility required drew parallels to his military experience, stating: “Moving around to different locations across the UK when a job is completed has parallels to military life.” His schedule, comprising of 12 days on followed by two days off, allows him to work in various teams, an aspect he finds rewarding.
In addition to his work at EST, James Meakins is pursuing an Open University course in health and plans to study physical therapy. His professional and educational pursuits represent a proactive approach to adapting and thriving post-military service. EST contracts manager James Atherton lauded Meakins, describing him as “a fantastic addition to the team.”
John Harker, the general manager at Veterans into Logistics, highlighted the charity’s mission to prevent unemployment and homelessness among veterans by facilitating access to careers in logistics. He praised the skills and experiences that veterans offer, reinforcing the notion that their transition can be vital to various sectors.
James Meakins’ successful career transition emphasises the critical role of veteran-focused organisations in facilitating meaningful employment opportunities.
