Veterans Tom Constable and HighGround CEO Jamie Crisp talk to veterans and employers about careers within the rural land-based sectors.
The aim of the series is to create a library resource of knowledge about jobs and industries allowing listeners to learn more about the wide variety of sectors and the opportunities available. Covering information from employers and subject matter experts many of whom are veterans, about training, qualifications, networking, work experience and skills, these episodes are candid discussions about transitioning from the military into land-based careers and the huge range of skills and abilities service leavers have that make them sought after candidates.
If these podcasts have sparked an interest and you’d like to know more, contact Heather Crawford operationsmanager@highground-uk.org for a chat and information about our virtual and residential rural weeks or for signposting, information, advice and guidance on anything discussed.
Transitioning from the Military to the Land‑Based Sector:
General Richard Nugee, Chair of Trustees, Forces Trust discusses his support of HighGround and the value service leavers and veterans bring to the land-based sector.
Jim Holland, Co-Founder, Carma Earth, shares valuable insights about his transition journey, why he founded Carma Earth and why they support HighGround.
Horticulture / Gardener:
Karl Emmeleus, Head Gardener at the National Trust’s Killerton Estate. He talks about his journey from being a teacher to running a prestigious heritage garden; sharing routes into horticulture, the variety of roles, skills and attitudes needed. He is an advocate for the value of employing military service leavers and veterans.
Smallholding & Entrepreneurship: Mark Rees’ Journey from the Army to Gotland Gin:
Mark Rees is a 22 yr veteran, small holder. In a wide-ranging conversation, he openly shares his varied journey, the financial implications and the elements of luck he had. the Swedish – Devon story about Gotland Gin inspired by his sheep, animal husbandry, diversification, storytelling and the importance of failure in success.
Championing Veterans in the Rural Economy: Dr Charles Trotman of the CLA:
In a wide-ranging conversation Charles comprehensively describes how and why the CLA is drawing together a range of organisations to champion veteran employment in the rural economy.
Entrepreneur: Rob Palmer and Biochar:
Rob Palmer is a self-confessed university drop-out, weapons systems engineer, commissioned into the Royal Engineers, bomb finding and P Company. Transitioning into project management looking at sustainability and carbon dioxide removal. He gives a warts and all view of what running a start-up involves. Never saying no to coffee is his mantra for networking and finding out what you don’t want to do on leaving the military.
Deer Management: Adam Chant’s Journey from Signals Intelligence to the Devon Countryside:
Veteran and HighGround beneficiary, Adam Chant had a clear idea of what he wanted to do post-military. Developing a portfolio career around deer management, he guides us through the importance of making local and personal connections to make a success of rural living. He talks openly about the benefits being connected to nature and part of the solution to his mental health; as well as the need for honest conversations with family as part of transition and being prepared with financial planning.
Estate Management: Rob Honan on Leadership, Community & Opportunity:
Rob Honan – veteran and estate manager, talks through his route into the role and the varied nature of his days. Encapsulating the potential careers within the rural sectors, Rob talks candidly about day-to-day challenges of ensuring a viable business this is a wide-ranging discussion. His advocacy for service leavers and veterans is widespread and loud.
Arborist: Jamie’s Journey into Self‑Employment in Trees:
Jamie is veteran, having served 24 years in the Army and a HighGround rural week beneficiary. He shares with us the reason for choosing arboriculture, why he decided to become self-employed, the advantages and potential difficulties as well as how and why he has diversified his business.
Countryside Manager: Josie’s Non‑Linear Path to Nature Recovery:
Now working for the National Trust, Josie is a REME veteran, holds a PhD, has been a lorry driver and now manages large scale countryside projects. As a female veteran her perspective is hugely valuable; and she is openly honest about not knowing which direction she wanted to take.
Mobile Agricultural Technician: From RAF Supply to Tractor Troubleshooter:
Martin Puxely is another HighGround rural week beneficiary and found his post-military career whilst helping out on a farm prior to leaving the RAF. Applying to the John Deere military hiring programme, his varied work days utilise his engineering skills developed over his career from chainsaws to high level tractors.
Farm Management: From Infantry Officer to Velcourt Farm Manager:
Veteran, maths teacher, furniture factory manager and aspirational farmer found his way to Velcourt through a discussion with a fellow veteran. Ollie explains what commercial farm management is, the practical and hands on elements, and the business management and long-term visions needed to succeed. He talks honesty about salary ranges and the associated benefits, pressures, the work life balance, community and the satisfaction gained from a fun and exciting role which encourages new thinking.
