SP Energy Networks has marked Armed Forces Day by celebrating colleagues who have moved from military service into civilian roles, highlighting the skills they bring to powering communities and advancing the UK's energy transition.

As part of ScottishPower — recently recognised among the top 50 GREAT British Employers of Veterans 2026 — the company says it is committed to providing meaningful opportunities for veterans, reservists and their families.

At the centre of this work is EMPower, a 12-month training and recruitment pathway that supports ex-service personnel into skilled roles across the electricity network and the wider energy sector. The programme is designed to translate military experience into industry-recognised competencies.

For Barry McIntosh, an EMPower trainee and former member of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, the initiative has opened a new chapter. "It was daunting to leave the army after so long… EMPower is giving me a second career full of opportunity. The training and support help you make the most of the skills you've developed in the military — I'm really enjoying it."

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Across SP Energy Networks, veterans and reservists draw on resilience, leadership, teamwork and problem-solving honed during service to deliver vital infrastructure for homes and businesses. Lands Officer and Army reservist Russell Maclean applies operational experience from Iraq and Afghanistan to remain calm under pressure, support colleagues and maintain delivery focus.

Similarly, Leslie Barker joined through EMPower after serving as an Anti-Tank Platoon Sergeant and has since moved into project and operational roles, using leadership, adaptability and a proactive mindset to build a long-term career in the sector.

In SP Transmission, Senior Project Manager Mark Flannigan applies communication, teamwork and leadership skills developed as an Infantry Officer to deliver critical infrastructure projects. His work supports the modernisation of the electricity network and contributes to the transition to Net Zero, providing a clear sense of purpose beyond military service.

Recognising that the move into civilian work can be challenging, SP Energy Networks provides structured pathways such as EMPower alongside mentoring, peer support and strong internal networks to help colleagues adapt, grow and succeed.

As part of ScottishPower — a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and holder of the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award — the company says it will continue to champion a Forces-friendly culture. On Armed Forces Day, it thanked those who have served and celebrated colleagues who are building successful post-service careers while helping to power the communities it serves.