Cornish broadband provider Wildanet has singed the Armed Forces Covenant, reinforcing its dedication to supporting veterans, ex-service personnel, reservists and service families and providing opportunities for career development.
The Liskeard-headquartered firm said the Armed Forces Covenant is a pledge made by businesses and organisations to acknowledge the value of veterans and service personnel and their contributions to society. By signing the covenant, Wildanet "demonstrates its recognition of the talent and expertise" possessed by individuals who have served in the military.
The company said that is "driven by a strong ethos" of inclusivity and inclusion, both in its operations bringing broadband to hard-to-reach communities across Cornwall and Devon, and in the way it manages its own business, recruitment and training.
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Wildanet's team already includes a number of ex-service personnel, with 34 veterans at Wildanet out of a total workforce on 184.
Paddy Paddison, Wildanet chief technology officer, and himself a veteran of the Royal Corps of Signals, signed the covenant on behalf of Wildanet, with Major John Porter, officer commanding 232 Port Squadron, based in Bodmin (part of 165 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC), signing on behalf of the armed services.
Mr Paddison said: "At Wildanet, we deeply value the dedication, resilience, and expertise of individuals who have served in the armed forces. By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, we reaffirm our unwavering support for veterans and ex-service personnel, providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities to build successful careers outside the military. We are proud to be part of a nationwide initiative that recognises and celebrates their contributions.
“We are also very excited to be supporting the Armed Forces Day National Event in Falmouth where, most appropriately, we have chosen a team of veterans from within Wildanet who will be putting the communications infrastructure in place. This will include providing wireless internet access to about 120 traders/stands during the event, together with the connectivity to enable live streaming and commentary of the Red Arrows and other activities and air displays on to a big screen in events square.”
Jon Beake, regional employer engagement director for Wessex RFCA (Reserve Forces and Cadet Association), said: "We are thrilled to welcome Wildanet to the growing network of organisations committed to supporting our armed forces community. Through their extensive support programs and commitment to providing career opportunities, Wildanet sets a commendable example for other businesses to follow. We are delighted to collaborate with Wildanet in honouring our veterans and ensuring their successful integration into civilian life."
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