The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) have achieved a Gold Award in the Defence Relationship Management (DRM) Employer Recognition Scheme. Having previously held the silver award, the association has been working hard to increase their support, alongside the current holders of the gold award who have acted as excellent role models.
In the 10 years since signing the Armed Forces Covenant, the MTA have proactively advocated for, and supported, the armed forces community. Some of the key actions for which the MTA have been recognised for the award include our charitable work where we have raised money for Forces charities including The Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers Charity, Mission Motorsport and the Fallen Fusiliers. The MTA’s CEO, James Selka has also completed seven Big Battlefield Bike Rides to raising thousands of pounds for Help the Heroes. Other MTA staff have also volunteered at the National Transition Event and other Mission Motorsport events.
The MTA have also been recognised for their advocacy work, collaborating with Mission Community to produce new sector guidance for those transitioning out of the army to help them find employment in the manufacturing and advanced engineering sector. The association also runs quarterly articles to their Members, promoting engagement with the Armed Forces Community with targets to get 10 members signed up to the covenant in 2025/26.
The MTA also use their Exhibition, MACH, to promote opportunities in the sector cadets and services leavers. The exhibition, which runs every two years, is available for AFC and reservists’ events with the MTA offering venue space free of charge. Many military charities use the event to network and promote their work and the 2026 edition of the exhibition will feature a stand from the Royal Navy. On top of that, the zone is run by the MTA Education & Skills Manager, Daniel Reed, who is a veteran of 20 years’ service in the British Army.
James Selka, DL, CEO of the MTA said “Service leavers have a wealth of career paths open to them, and while manufacturing and advanced engineering may not always be the first choice, perhaps they should be. This sector delivers the technologies and solutions that protect our health, defend our nation, and tackle global challenges like climate change. Manufacturing has long underpinned the UK’s economic strength and national resilience—values that resonate deeply with those who have served in the Armed Forces. As the industry evolves with new technologies, it offers service leavers the chance to upskill and grow. With a pressing skills shortage across British manufacturing, greater engagement with the Armed Forces Community is not only welcome—it’s essential. For those transitioning from military to civilian life, it opens the door to meaningful employment and higher than average median wages.
“We are actively encouraging our membership to sign up to the armed forces corporate covenant and if anyone is interested, they can reach out to us for further information”.
The MTA continue to promote and engage with the armed forces and are looking forward to assisting their members and others in the industry do the same.
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