Forces for Tech

Are you a tech company struggling to recruit talent?

There’s a large pool of candidates out there who possess the skills you need, and they’re ready to work. In fact, over 100,000 veterans are unemployed in the UK alone.

The ability to use logic and pragmatism for better decision making under pressure is something that translates well into any industry. Typically ex-forces take initiative to complete tasks with minimal instruction, and are used to collecting information from disparate sources and communicating their findings effectively. Offering experience across a wide range of jobs within the forces makes for an excellent candidate.

In partnership with Cinch and, recruitment organisation Morson Talent, our "Forces for Tech” event will explore how to transition from the Armed Forces into the world of Technology. We will hear from Cristan Massey, Lead Service Delivery Manager at Cinch, first-hand experience as he explains his move from the Forces into Tech and why he is not looking back. The tech market is a buoyant, future proof industry and therefore we want to showcase how highly skilled Forces personnel can move into a forever growing sector as the world increasingly depends on Technology.
Also joining us will be Morson Forces Ambassador, Corporal Andy Reid MBE, who served with the 3rd Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment. Losing both legs and his right arm whilst on patrol during a tour of Afghanistan, Andy’s attitude has seen him become an inspirational motivational speaker. Andy works closely with Morson Talent and the ex-forces community to help bridge the gap between the Armed Forces and ‘civvy street’. Together, Morson and Andy have enabled over 2,500 ex-forces personnel to date to find employment with a diverse range of organisations globally.

“There’s many people who’ve got great skills and when they leave the Armed Forces, I can help them to identify where within an organisation those skills can be used. Ex-forces personnel have a wealth of talent, and post-service, the technology sector is an ideal place for them to explore a fulfilling civilian career.” Corporal Andy Reid MBE, Morson Forces Ambassador

This event is open to all and the opportunity for the tech community to meet ex forces personnel and is part of Manchester Tech Festival, we look forward to seeing you there!

Big thanks to our sponsors Morson, Cinch and Bonded Warehouse for hosting.

Agenda:
6pm Registration, drinks & nibbles
6:45pm Talk from Andy Reid MBE who is the Morson Forces Ambassador 7:25pm Break
7:30 – 8:00pm Interview with Cristan Massey, life in tech post forces
8pm Q&A / Networking & 10 Lightening Talks*

Got a tech subject you love talking about, a tech problem you can’t get your head around or an idea you want to sound out? Have you recently moved to Manchester and want to introduce yourself/your company to the community? Do you want to build your confidence and practise speaking in front of a crowd? It’s your opportunity to do a Lightning Tech Talk!
Lightening Tech Talks (99 seconds each) x 10 spots - please email ruby@manchestertechfestival.co.uk to book your slot

If it isn't too much trouble...
Please could we ask you to bring a donation for a food bank? You might be aware that the MTF team have been working closely with Manchester City Council to discuss the various ways the tech community can support the region long term with Digital Inclusion goals - however people still need instant and short term solutions as well, so as a result of our conversations we wanted to ask if everyone who comes to this event could bring a contribution of either sanitary products aimed at people who menstruate (tampons, wipes, sanitary pads, maybe that weird gel wash thing you can get) or something for babies, so formula, nappies, wipes, baby bath stuff, or onesies etc. (Anything donated needs to be new and not used please) We will then work with the council to ensure these items are taken to the relevant places in the city so that they can be distributed to those who need them.

Thank you so much! We can't wait to see you all and give you our exciting updates!!

Love,
The TaTC Team <3 <3 <3