The Army Reserve plays a crucial role in supporting the British Army, giving people the chance to experience military life on a flexible, part time basis. Within this structure, the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) form one of the Army’s most skilled technical corps, responsible for maintaining and repairing the Army’s wide range of equipment. Beyond REME, the Army Reserve offers a wide variety of diverse roles from logistics and medical support to communications, engineering, specialist trades and more, ensuring there is a path for people of all backgrounds and skill sets. Reservists in REME benefit from high quality technical and leadership training, gain nationally recognised qualifications and develop valuable skills that transfer directly into civilian life, all while contributing to vital engineering support, both in the UK and overseas.
Residents from Newcastle, County Durham, Teesside and the surrounding areas are being encouraged to explore a new challenge that can fit around their current job or studies. On 27th January, 124 Company of 102 REME will host an Open Evening at DL5 6UR, starting at 7.30pm, giving visitors the chance to meet serving soldiers and learn more about life in the Army Reserve. The event aims to provide a relaxed, informative insight into what it means to serve part time alongside existing commitments.
LCpl Leonard said: “Joining the Reserve has given me the best of both worlds. I can keep my full-time career, but I also get to train, learn new skills and be part of a team that makes a real difference. It’s more rewarding than I ever expected, and the opportunities, whether technical, personal or adventurous, are massive.”
During the evening, soldiers will outline their weekly training routine, which includes Tuesday night parades and selected weekend activities at Newton Aycliffe and Walker. Attendees will hear how reservists are paid to train while maintaining their civilian careers, as well as the opportunities to take part in sport, fitness sessions and adventurous activities. With the added potential to travel the world, the event offers an ideal chance to ask questions, explore the facilities and discover what a role within 124 Company could offer.