London, England: John Deere will run a free online Military Hiring Programme event next week to help service leavers understand how their skills transfer into careers working with advanced agricultural and turf machinery.

The virtual session on December 3 will give attendees a clear view of the roles available across the United Kingdom 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 Cochran. “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. Walker 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, Walker 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, Walker has taken the role of Service Manager at Smallridge’s Callington depot in Cornwall. 

He said: “Attending an event like this, an online introduction to the programme, is thoroughly worthwhile. 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.

*John Deere is an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.