HORIBA MIRA – a world-leader in advanced engineering, research and product testing – has officially pledged its commitment to supporting Armed Forces personnel into the civilian workforce having signed the Armed Forces Covenant.
As a business, HORIBA MIRA has long employed veterans and reservists, in addition to civilians. Through the official Covenant, HORIBA MIRA will continue to harness the unique capabilities and skills veterans and reservists acquire through working in the military, particularly experience with technology yet to be used by civilians. Technological innovation in the military is often ahead of the curve – and HORIBA MIRA will be able to benefit from these advanced skill sets and knowledge, as well as supporting Armed Forces personnel in securing civilian employment.
George Gillespie OBE, CEO at HORIBA MIRA, said: “Our pledge today is recognition of MIRA’s continued support of those who have served and are currently serving in the military. The Armed Forces Covenant means that we can bring new skills and talent into our business which is key as we continue to look to recruit staff across all levels.
“Armed Forces veterans and reservists have a unique understanding of the challenges facing the transport sector, and being able to harness this talent by supporting veterans as they move into civilian life is hugely beneficial for both parties.”
The pledge will see HORIBA MIRA work with the MOD’s Career Transition Partnership (CTP) as well as promote itself as an Armed Forces-friendly organisation. The business already supports its reservist employees through training and deployment, providing up to 10 days leave for the reservists’ annual camp, as well as providing flexible leave for staff impacted by a partner’s deployment.
In addition to employing Armed Forces veterans, HORIBA MIRA works closely with the defence industry, spanning its testing and engineering consultancy. This includes supporting the British Ministry of Defence and its suppliers on programmes such as Panama, the HORIBA MIRA Modular Autonomous Control Equipment (MACE) route proving and clearing system. The technology allows intelligent UGVs to be operated in both tele-op and autonomous modes up to 2km away in the detection of IEDs.
The Covenant was set-out in 2000 with its core principle to ensure that Armed Forces personnel, and their families, are treated fairly and not disadvantaged in their daily lives. Over 900 business have signed the Covenant to date.
