On Wednesday 15 November, Edinburgh Airport received their Silver Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award from Air Officer Scotland, Air Vice Marshal Ross Paterson.
Whilst unable to attend the Silver ERS reception in October, Edinburgh Airport did not want to miss the opportunity to mark the occasion. Consequently, the airport team invited members of Lowland RFCA and representatives from the Royal Air Force to join them for a small celebratory gathering.
The Silver ERS Award is the second highest badge of honour available to organisations that employ and support Reservists, service leavers, Veterans and their families.
Each Silver Award winner has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a commitment to supporting Defence through services, policy and advocacy.
Employers have gone above and beyond with their support through engaging with initiatives such as employing Veterans, supporting individuals transitioning out of the Armed Forces into a new career and providing flexibility for serving Reservists.
Despite being Scotland’s busiest airport, Edinburgh Airport has risen to this challenge excellently. Directly employing around 900 staff with a further 7000 across the campus, the airport is a strategic employer of and advocate for Defence people in Scotland’s capital.
Chief Operating Officer Adam Wilson received the award from Air Officer Scotland on behalf of the airport. As a Veteran, Adam is passionate about supporting Defence people and attracting more talent from within the Armed Forces community.
On winning the award, Wilson said: ‘We often say aviation is a team game, and we’re fortunate enough to have Armed Forces leavers working in a variety of different roles across our team – bringing a wealth of real-life experience and a range of skills to the business.
‘We see the positive impact brought by those with a Defence background as they apply their military skills to their role at Edinburgh Airport. Whether they are involved in the planning and running of the fast-paced airport operation, helping manage crisis situations, or leading airport teams under pressure, their experience tends to be invaluable.’
Reflecting on his background in the Forces, Wilson said: ‘As a former British Army Officer I will always be an advocate for supporting members of the Armed Forces, just as they’ve supported all of us. We look forward to building on these efforts and attracting more talent with a Forces background.’
Air Vice Marshal Ross Paterson, the senior RAF Officer in Scotland, commented on the achievement, saying: ‘Defence and Edinburgh Airport have strong historical links, ever since it became a military aerodrome in 1916. In 1918, when the RAF came into being, the aerodrome became RAF Turnhouse; many locals of a certain vintage will remember that time fondly.
Lowland RFCA was delighted to attend the event and was thrilled to see Edinburgh Airport’s hard work pay off.
